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"SO YOU’VE COME BACK, HAVE YOU, JOHN ED?" 


Airship Cruising from 
Silver Fox Farm 

I 


BY 

JAMES ' OTIS 

rt 

AUTHOR OF “building AN AIRSHIP AT SILVER FOX FARM,*' 

“the aeroplane at silver fox farm,” “the 

WIRELESS STATION AT SILVER FOX FARM,” ETC 


ILLUSTRATIONS BY COPELAND 



> ) 
1 ^ 



NEW YORK 

THOMAS Y. CROWELL COMPANY 

PUBLISHERS 




Copyright. 1913 , 

BY THOMAS y. CROWELL COMPANY. 


NOTE 


The extracts relating to airships in this work have 
been quoted from “The Conquest of the Air," by 
Alphonse Berget, published in America by G. P. 
Putnam’s Sons. 





' \ IN 


CONTENTS 


CHAPTER PAGE 

1 . “The Smuggler” i 

11 . The Trial Voyage 20 

III. Storm-bound 41 

IV. Life-saving 62 

V. Amateur Wreckers 83 

VI. The Rescued 103 

VII. Master Cushing’s Scheme ..... 123 

VIII. Pleasant Harbor 143 

IX. Marooned 164 

X. Mr. Barton’s Gifts 184 

XL Plans for the Future 204 

XII. A Glimpse of John Ed 224 

XIII. A Fruitless Search 243 

XIV. Airship Telegraphy 261 

XV. Perplexity 282 

XVI. An Unexpected Visitor 303 

XVII. John Ed’s Plea 324 


/ 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 


So you’ve come back, have you, John 
Ed ? ’ ” Frontispiece 




OPPOSITE PAGE 

The helmsman steered the ship to the brow of 


the hill 30*^ 

‘‘ Captain Tobi’s schooner struck the Neva’s bow ” 46 u-- 

Something was thrown at Zenas ” 841^ 

^ Come one step further aft, you mutinous dog, 

an’ I’ll brain yer! ’ ” 186 

‘ You ought to know that boat. Take a squint 

at her ’ ” 234 u 

“ Their cries for help were redoubled ” . . . . 280 

An Unexpected Visitor 310^/ 


AIRSHIP CRUISING FROM 
SILVER FOX FARM 


CHAPTER I 

'' THE SMUGGLER ” 

Yes, Pm allowin' that she’s considerable of a 
beauty, that is, so far as airships go; but her name is 
mightily against her, Paul Simpson, an’ you’ll come 
to find it out before we’re many weeks older,” Zenas 
Cushing said to the son of one of the owners of 
Barren Island, on which was located a farm for the 
raising of silver foxes, as the two stood at the door 
of a huge hangar in which was swaying gently to and 
fro an aerial craft 

To those who have not read the stories concerning 
Silver Fox Farm which have been published from 
time to time, a few words of explanation are necessary 
for the better understanding of what follows. 

Less than a year from the time when this story 
opens a certain gentleman of Seaview, a town on the 
mainland twenty miles or more from Barren Island, 
conceived the idea of raising silver foxes for the pur- 
pose of selling their pelts, which are of considerable 
value. He decided upon this island because it was out 
1 


2 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


of the track of coastwise steamers and vessels, and not 
likely to be visited by curious people, for it was in the 
highest degree necessary that the animals remain un- 
disturbed. 

In order more successfully to carry on the business, 
he took advantage of the wireless telegraph which had 
been set up by his son Paul and his particular friend, 
Ned Bartlett, who were enthusiasts as well as 
amateurs, and thus the island was, as one might say, 
connected with the mainland. 

Before the work of raising foxes had been well 
begun a message came through the ether from a dis- 
abled yacht far out to sea, and in a small power boat 
Zenas Cushing, a young man who had been hired 
by Mr. Simpson as general assistant, and the lad Paul 
succeeded in locating the yacht and towing her to the 
island. The craft, named the Nera, was owned by 
Mr. Chester Sawtelle, a wealthy gentleman, who 
joined in the silver fox venture, chiefly because he 
saw the desirability of the island as a location for the 
building of aerial craft, an art in which he was deeply 
interested. 

In addition to the crew of the Nera, the owners 
of the island, the young wireless operators, and Zenas 
Cushing, the occupants of the island comprised Daniel 
Downs, an old farmer, his wife and two sons, Ernest 
and Sam. These last stood in mortal fear of a cer- 
tain outlaw, John Ed Bingham, who was notorious 
for smuggling, and who had thus far done very much 
in the way of mischief to the island dwellers. He 
had, by shooting, disabled the first aeroplane built. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


3 


and in many other ways, as Zenas Cushing said, 
“ made all hands generally miserable ” because they 
could not make him prisoner. 

Shortly before the day when the airship Smug- 
gler was ready for the trial trip. Captain Tobi 
Thompson, an eccentric old sailor of Seaview, had 
captured John Ed, intending to carry him in triumph 
to Barren Island ; but when he arrived at that port the 
prisoner had escaped in what seemed a most mys- 
terious manner. 

In the story entitled “ The Aeroplane at Silver Fox 
Farm,” the following description is given: Barren 
Island rises out of the sea for a length of about three 
miles, having a width of a mile and a half, and 
standing, save at the north and south ends, from 
thirty to forty feet above the sea level. At the north 
end is a cove formed by two long reefs, called 
Swallow-tailed Cove, which can be used as a haven 
when the tide is half flood and more; but after the 
water falls lower than that the jagged rocks at the 
entrance form an impassable barrier. At the south 
end there is little or no possibility of landing even in 
a small craft, owing to the many reefs, therefore in the 
small harbor on the west side is the only safe anchor- 
age to be found. Here lay at anchor the motor yacht 
Neva, a Hampton dory with six horse-power, a small 
motor boat, and on the beach was the fishing dory 
owned by Mr. Downs. 

The farmer and his family occupied a dwelling near 
the head of the harbor; on the highest land at the 
north end of the island had been erected a commodious 


4 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


building used by the owners of the island and their 
young assistants as a temporary home and offices, 
while a short distance away stood the wireless sta- 
tion. This was tuned with another station on the 
mainland built by the two boys before they had any 
idea that their experiments might prove to be of value 
in a commercial sense. 

In addition to the buildings mentioned, was a large 
shed, or hangar, erected for the sole purpose of hous- 
ing the airship, just completed, but not yet having 
been given a trial, and it was in front of this structure 
that Zenas and Paul were standing when the former 
gave vent to his dislike of the aerial ship’s name. 

‘‘ Goodness knows we’ve already had trouble enough 
with John Ed Bingham without namin’ this ’ere craft 
after him,” Master Cushing continued discontentedly. 

“ It seems to me, Zenas, that you are disturbing 
yourself about trifles,” and Paul laughed heartily. 

Suppose Mr. Sawtelle did name her the Smuggler, 
how does that show that John Ed is her godfather? ” 
Show ? It’s as plain as the nose on my face ! 
You can’t go anywhere on the coast an’ speak of ^ the 
smuggler ’ without folks understandin’ that you mean 
John Ed. Now we’re riskin’ our necks in what Daniel 
Downs calls a crow-chaser, that’s been named after 
the old villain.” 

“ Her name won’t interfere with her sailing, 
Zenas.” 

That’s somethin’ we’ve yet got to find out, an’ 
when our necks have been broken the knowin’ won’t 
do us any partic’lar good.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


5 


“ Mr. Sawtelle said you might stay aboard the Nera 
with the ship-keeper if you were afraid to take pas- 
sage in the Smuggler” 

“ I know he did, lad, an' perhaps Fd be tempted to 
take him at his word but for lettin’ Daniel Downs an’ 
his precious sons see that I was afraid to go up in 
what I’ve helped build. I shall take my chances with 
the rest of the crew, Paul, knowin’ that after I’ve 
been smashed into little bits the Downs family will 
neglect the foxes, an’ that’ll be the biggest kind of a 
pity, for them ’ere animals are gettin’ along in great 
shape. I’ll go bail there’s more money to be made out 
of them than from a dozen crow-chasers like this, 
though I’m free to admit it’s a mighty handsome boat 
of its kind. What a pity we didn’t spend our time 
puttin’ together a sailin’ craft.” 

“ But that’s exactly what the Smuggler is,” Paul 
cried laughingly. 

“Yes; but Mr. Sawtelle counts that she’ll 
sail on air, an’ when she comes to grief it’s goin’ 
to be mighty hard on a fellow when he falls with a 
bang.” 

“ What’s the matter here ? ” a cheery voice cried, 
and Ned Bartlett came into view from the direction of 
that dwelling which Master Cushing always spoke of 
as “ the hotel.” “ Is Zenas still wailing over the 
name of the ship? ” 

“ He counts to a dead certainty that it’ll swamp 
her,” was Paul’s laughing reply. “ What are you do- 
ing here? I thought Mr. Sawtelle gave orders that 
you were to hang out at the telegraph station to re- 


6 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


ceive the message he hopes to get before we make 
the trial voyage ? ” 

Pve been on duty two hours, and he has just 
relieved me, so I came over to have a better view of 
the Smuggler. What with the excitement of the chase 
after John Ed, and the mystery of his escape from 
Captain Tobi, I really haven’t had a good look at the 
ship since she was ready to sail.” 

Because the Smuggler has already been described 
in ‘‘ Building an Airship at Silver Fox Farm,” there 
is no good reason why we should repeat it here. As 
to the motive power of the craft, both the boys were 
to be greatly enlightened, for before they had brought 
their inspection to an end, Mr. Sawtelle called them 
into the telegraph building, saying when they entered 
with Zenas at their heels : 

Some enterprising newspaper reporters, who have 
broken into your station at Seaview and are evidently 
expert wireless operators, have just asked for a de- 
scription of the Smugglers equipment. While I am 
writing it out I wish one of you lads would begin 
sending the message, for it will require considerable 
time.” 

Paul seated himself at the instrument; Mr. Saw- 
telle put before him a sheet of paper on which he had 
already written a dozen or more lines, and, leaning 
over his shoulder, Zenas read as the words were 
ticked off by the key, the following : 

“The car is built of a series of platinum tubes of 
thirty and forty millimetres’ diameter, and are made 
rigid by steel wire diagonals fitted with stretchers. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


7 


The central part of the car has a height of two 
metres, with a total length of twenty-eight metres. 
The steering rudder is carried at the stern, and its 
surface is about fifteen square metres. It is made of 
rubber fabric stretched upon a framework of platinum 
tubes, and connected to the car by what is known as a 
cardan joint. The fourth knot of the stern lifting 
ropes and two stretchers serve to hold it. 

“ The ‘ stabilizator,’ or elevating rudder, fitted to 
the front of the car is controlled, as is the one at the 
stern, through steel wires and chains, by two wheels 
placed upon the bridge on the right and left respec- 
tively. In the center of the car is the accommodation 
for passengers as well as the pilot’s position. The 
pilot, standing on the left, has the steering wheel 
under his hand, and on his right is his assistant hold- 
ing the elevating rudder- wheel. In front is the motor 
room, and the pilot can communicate direct with the 
engineer. A vertical panel on the front of the bridge 
carries the whole of the controlling instruments. 
These are the manometer of the balloon and air bal- 
lonet; the barometer to indicate the altitude, as well 
as a barograph; the dynamometer which records the 
movements of the screw; and lastly, the speedometer 
registering the number of revolutions per minute 
made by the motor. In addition to this is a shelf 
carrying the chart and a compass. Through the pas- 
sengers’ space extends a large suspended table carry- 
ing road maps, indispensable to the voyager and for 
guidance by comparison with the country spread im- 
mediately below. Lastly, under the car are two small 


8 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


life-boats which enable the ship to alight without the 
car being injured by rubbing on the ground, and also 
serve as a means of safety for the crew if the craft 
should be wrecked in the water. 

“ The two engines, working independently, are ex- 
plosion motors such as are used in automobiles, each 
of sixty horse-power. The motors are fixed to the 
car by springs in such a manner that the vibration is 
no greater than in a well-built motor-car standing 
still with the motor running. As to the possible 
length of a voyage we will say that we travel at the 
rate of sixty kilometres an hour, or nearly thirty 
miles. The engines will consume sixty kilogrammes 
of fuel per hour. The ship, carrying eight people, can 
take six hundred kilogrammes of gasoline, which will 
make it possible to travel ten hours; if we take into 
consideration that it must return to its mooring ground 
without alighting for additional fuel, the voyage may 
be prolonged only five hours. But suppose only one 
of the motors is used, the propelling power will be only 
sixty horse-power, the speed will be divided by the 
cubic root of two, or only forty-eight kilometres per 
hour. But the single motor will consume only thirty 
kilogrammes of gasoline, and with six hundred on 
board, the ship would have twenty hours of travel 
instead of ten. Speed is costly on an airship as on 
an ocean steamer; to double it the motor power must 
be multiplied by eight; the balloon must therefore 
carry eight times more fuel; whereas by diminishing 
the motor-power by one-half, the speed is reduced 
only by one-fifth.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


9 


It was at this point that Mr. Sawtelle concluded his 
message to be sent to the waiting newspaper reporters 
on the mainland, and as he read the last words Zenas 
Cushing cried out in astonishment : 

“ Then the Smuggler can’t run but twenty hours, 
eh?” 

“ Not unless she alights and procures more fuel.” 

“ But I’ve read about these ’ere airships runnin’ day 
in an’ day out over places where you couldn’t get gaso- 
line enough to wet the tip of a mouse’s ear.” 

Such alleged information as that you got from 
some fantastic tale, the writer of which could have 
paid no attention to either possibilities or probabilities. 
The radius of an airship’s action is in fact exactly as 
I have written it down,” Mr. Sawtelle said decidedly, 
and was seemingly on the point of referring to the 
printed statements of experts on aerial voyaging, when 
Zenas said quickly: 

“ I’m allowin’ that you know what you’re talkin’ 
about, sir, an’ the yarns I’ve read must have been fish 
stories. Now will you tell me how long a kilometre 
is? I haven’t been able to figger out why you can’t 
measure in plain English.” 

“ The universal system of measurement is the met- 
rical, and I advise you now, as I have once before, to 
study the tables. A kilometre, roughly speaking, is 
about five-eighths of a mile, therefore you can reckon 
for yourself how far the Smuggler will be able to 
sail without an additional supply of fuel.” 

You mean, sir, that I can figger how far she’d go 
in case nothin’ happened to upset her ; but, bein’ named 


lO 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


after John Ed Bingham as she is, Fm allowin’ that 
you’ll find it mighty hard work to get beyond Swallow- 
tailed Cove.” 

“ If one can judge by the old smuggler’s ability to 
keep out of our way after working mischief, the name 
should do her no harm, for surely he has sailed far 
and long,” Mr. Sawtelle said laughingly, and Master 
Cushing’s face brightened as he muttered half to him- 
self : 

I declare I hadn’t thought about that before ; per- 
haps the name may be all right after all.” 

“When is the trial trip to be made, sir?” Ned 
asked. 

“ To-morrow if the weather permits — ^we’ll say the 
first fair day, and the full crew are to be on board.” 

“ Have you counted in Paul and me? ” 

“ Surely .1 have, for you two lads must attend to 
the wireless apparatus which we are to carry. The 
two machinists we hired from Boston, the engineer 
of the Nera, Zenas, Mr. Simpson, and I make up the 
full list — eight in all.” 

“ All the Downs family are to be left behind, eh ? ” 
and Zenas looked decidedly interested. 

“ There is no reason why we should take them, and 
every reason why they be left behind,” Mr. Sawtelle 
said with a laugh. 

“ But do you reckon they’ll look after the foxes 
all right, in case John Ed should turn up? ” 

“We can trust the cook of the Nera to see that they 
attend to their work faithfully. On the first voyage 
I am not intending to be absent many hours. We will 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


II 


try out the Smuggler by running over to Seaview, 
when very likely we may learn of some defects to be 
remedied, and come back here for the final touches 
before going to the extent of our ability/' 

At this moment some one in the hangar shouted for 
Mr. Sawtelle to inspect a certain joint in the steering 
gear, and he had no sooner gone out of the telegraph 
station than Daniel Downs, followed by his two sons, 
came curiously to the door of the building. 

It begins to look as if your new crow-chaser was 
about finished, eh ? ” the old man said with a grin. 
“ What do you count on doin' with the little contrap- 
tion that John Ed shot to pieces? " 

The aeroplane will remain in the hangar," Paul 
replied as he rose from the instrument, having finished 
sending the long message. “ I hope you won't be 
tempted to use her, Mr. Downs, while we’re away." 

“ I ain’t crazy enough yet to trust myself in the air 
on any kind of a contrivance," and Mr. Downs looked 
around at his sons as if to learn whether they had 
heard correctly his words of supposed wisdom. “ A 
boat or a boss an' wagon is good enough for me, an' 
allers will be even if I should live to be as old as 
Methuselah. But tell me, are you addle-pates really 
countin' on goin' to sea in that 'ere contraption?” 

We sure are,” and for the instant Zenas was well 
pleased because of having been counted as one of the 
crew. ‘‘ What's more, we’re goin' to set sail in the 
mornin', an’ if John Ed Bingham is anywhere on the 
face of the earth we'll hunt him out.” 

Same as you have before,” Sam Downs squeaked. 


12 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


‘‘If you don’t have better luck than when you went 
to Apple Island, John Ed can come ashore here an’ 
play hob ’cordin’ to his own likin’.” 

“ Do you mean that you people would stand idly by 
and see him do mischief to the foxes ? ” Paul asked 
sharply, and Mr. Downs replied in an apologetic tone : 

“ Sam didn’t mean anythin’ by what he said. Of 
course we’d fight agin even John Ed, if he showed a 
mind to do what he hadn’t ought’er ; but you must ad- 
mit that so far he’s had matters about as he pleased. 
I’d give up a good deal if I could know how he con- 
trived to skip Cap’in Tobi.” 

“ It must have been that one of the crew let him 
out of the vessel’s hold before she was got under way,” 
Ned said carelessly. “ He’s not likely to come this 
way again, though, so we needn’t talk of him any 
more. Are you weather prophet enough to tell us 
what kind of a day we’re likely to have to-morrow, 
Mr. Downs ? ” 

“ Wa’al, I’m lookin’ for it to be fair; but you can 
make up your mind that winter is cornin’ with a rush 
this season, so get in all the crow-chasin’ you can 
within the next few days.” 

Zenas looked about him in dismay. He had every 
faith in the predictions of Daniel Downs, and it was 
by no means pleasing to fancy that stormy weather 
was near at hand, for there was more than a possibility 
that the dwellers on Barren Island might be held 
prisoners by the wind, as had happened more than 
once since the Downs family lived there. 

“ Now don’t hunt around for trouble, Zenas,” Paul 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


13 


said laughingly, noting the expression of anxiety on 
Master Cushing’s face. “ It isn’t likely we’ll have 
such weather that the Nera can’t be run over to 

Seaview, so there’s no need of looking so glum ” 

How about that ? ” Daniel Downs interrupted by 
shouting as he pointed seaward, where could be seen 
a small sailing craft that had just come into view be- 
yond the southerly end of the island. “If that ain’t 
Cap’ in Tobi I’ll eat seaweed for the rest of my nat’ral 
life! I knowed he couldn’t keep away from his ’ere 
island when he had every reason to believe your crow- 
chaser was about ready to cut didoes, an’ I’m hopin’ 
Zenas won’t hair the old fellow up too much by re- 
mindin’ him of how he lost John Ed.” 

“ Don’t you fear that I’ll have any truck with that 
old pirate, Daniel. I can put my time to better use 
than roughin’ into him — I allow that’s his craft all 
right, all right.” 

“ It sure is, an’ he’ll be at anchor in less’n half an 
hour. Sam, you an’ Ernest better get out in the dory 
for a mess of rock cod, for he’ll be worse’n a ragin’ 
tiger if your mother don’t have some fried with plenty 
of pork scraps by the time he gets ashore.” 

“ I’m about tired out with catchin’ cod for Cap’in 
Tobi,” Sam muttered, but at the same time he obeyed 
his father’s command by setting off toward the shore. 
“ Seems to me he might do without fish one day, an’ 
I don’t understand why you an’ mother knuckle down 
to him whenever he winks his eye.” 

“ There’s no need for you to understand it, my son,” 
Daniel said sharply. “ It’s enough for you to know 


14 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


that Cap’ in Tobi is to have rock cod when he comes 
where I am, if so be it’s in the power of man to 
get ’em.” 

Then Mr. Downs limped slowly toward the harbor 
to greet his old friend, and Zenas said fretfully as 
he went in the direction of the hangar : 

I can’t stand it to hear that pirate howlin’ round 
this island as he’ll be doin’ as soon as he lets go 
anchor. It’s bad enough to know he’s close at hand 
without havin’ to listen to him.” 

“ You can help out considerably by not saying any- 
thing disagreeable to him,” Paul added laughingly. 
“If you stir him up, though, we can count on all the 
noise that’s needed.” 

“ You won’t hear me say in’ a word. I’m goin’ 
where I can’t see the old id jut, an’ there I’ll stay.” 

Master Cushing disappeared inside the hangar 
where Mr. Sawtelle was consulting with the machinists 
regarding the joint of the steering rudder, and Paul 
and Ned, not having anything better with which to 
occupy their time, idly watched the in-coming schooner. 

There was no question but that Mr. Downs had 
been in the right when he pronounced her to be Cap- 
tain Tobi’s craft, for immediately after rounding the 
point she made for the harbor, and within a few mo- 
ments the boys could clearly distinguish the very 
fleshy commander as he stood at the wheel. 

He did not wait to drop anchor before beginning to 
“ bellow,” as Zenas would have said ; and the schooner 
had no sooner rounded the southerly point of the 
harbor, when he shouted in his tempest-like note: 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


15 


‘‘ Ahoy, Daniel Downs ! Don’t skulk ashore there 
unless you’ve got a mess of prime rock cod ready for 
the eatin’ ! That’s pretty nigh the only thing 
that brought me in here, that an’ a hankerin’ to 
see the new crow-chaser, which I reckon is about 
finished.” 

'' Keep right on acomin’, Cap’in Tobi,” Mr. Downs 
shouted at the full strength of his lungs, but without 
being able to equal the volume of sound sent forth by 
the fat captain. I started the boys off fishin’ the 

minute you hove in sight ” 

An’ I reckon the little rascals are sogerin’ some- 
where ’longshore instead of havin’ their lines out! 
It beats all how boys love to fish till you’re needin’ 
the catch, an’ then they’d rather do almost anythin’ 
than drop a line over. Make ready with that anchor, 
you lubbers fo’ard! Over with it, unless you count 
on foulin’ the benzine craft! ” 

Captain Tobi continued to issue unnecessary orders 
in a regular fog-horn of a voice until the little schooner 
was swinging at her moorings thirty yards from the 
Neva, and then he commanded that the dory should 
be brought alongside. 

The people at Seaview won’t have much trouble 
in understanding that he is here, for it surely seems 
as if they might hear him,” Ned said grimly. I only 
hope the Downs boys will get the mess of rock cod 
quickly, so he won’t come this way. Let’s find Zenas, 
and go over to the other side of the island for a 
while.” 

Before it was possible for the two to carry into 


i6 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


effect this proposition the boys had ample proof that 
Master Cushing had forgotten his good resolutions, 
for even as Captain Tobi was clambering over the 
schooner’s rail into the dory could be heard the ques- 
tion, spoken so loudly that all on the island might 
hear it: 

“ Didn’t happen to bring John Ed with you agin, 
eh, Cap’in Tobi? ” 

“ So that monkeyfied talkin’ machine is stickin’ in 
his oar agin, is he?” the fat sailor cried in a rage, 
nearly falling overboard as he let go his hold on the 
rail to shake his fist toward Zenas, who had come out 
from behind the hangar in full view. ‘‘ Why sen- 
sible men will keep sich as him on this island beats 
me! ” 

“ They do it for the same reason that they let you 
come bellowin’ ’round, nearly chokin’ yourself to death 
on rock cod,” Master Cushing screamed, and by that 
time Paul had succeeded in gaining his side as he said 
angrily, in a low tone : 

“ Ain’t you ashamed to start a row, Zenas Cush- 
ing? I thought you agreed not to speak to the old 
fellow.” 

How could I help myself?” was the apologetic 
question. “ When he begins to howl I jest can’t keep 
my mouth shut.” 

** You will this time,” Ned said laughingly as he 
seized Zenas by the arm and hurried him toward the 
opposite shore. “ Captain Tobi is likely to be here 
quite a long while, since he has come to gratify his 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


17 

curiosity, and we don’t propose to have you hair him 
up.’’ 

I take notice that you ain’t so careful to make 
him keep his mouth shut ” 

It wouldn’t be possible for any one to do that, and 
we can have some little control over you, so come 
along, and don’t look over your shoulder, or you’ll 
set him to roaring again.” 

By dint of coaxing and scolding the boys succeeded 
in getting Zenas a safe distance away from Captain 
Tobi, and during two hours the three remained on the 
shore of Horse-Shoe Cove, returning just in time to 
hear the summons from the cook of the Neva which 
announced that dinner was ready. 

“ Captain Tobi is most likely eating rock cod and 
salt pork with Daniel Downs by this time, therefore I 
reckon it will be safe for us to let you go to the shore 
of the harbor,” Paul said laughingly as he led the way 
toward where the Neva's tender was drawn up on the 
white sand, and Master Cushing replied grimly, but 
with a certain twinkle of amusement at the corner of 
his eyes : 

I’ve sworn off on hairin’ the old pirate up ; from 
this time you won’t hear me speak to him; that is, if 
he gives me a wide berth.” 

Ten minutes later the two lads and Zenas had much 
the same as forgotten that such a man as Captain 
Tobi existed, for at the dinner table Mr. Sawtelle was 
mapping out the plans for the morrow, in case the 
day should be propitious for the proposed trial trip. 

We are to head directly for Seaview, and in order 


i8 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


that all hands may gain experience in such work, I 
count on alighting upon the rising ground back of 
the village, where our aeroplane was disabled,” he 
said in the tone of one who imparts welcome infor- 
mation. That done successfully, we will come back 
here and make ready for a longer voyage.” 

“ How will you stop without having at hand a large 
force of men to pull the craft down?” Paul asked. 

In the book you loaned us it was set down as ab- 
solutely necessary many people should be ready to aid 
in the descent as well as the ascent.” 

Since that was written a Frenchman by the name 
of Surcouf has invented an anchor which is at the 
same time a grapple, and two of these solve the 
problem, as you shall see to-morrow, for we have just 
put a couple on board the Smuggler. It will be an 
experiment for us all, for I have not seen the device 
at work, and if we fail to moor our ship it will not 
be a serious matter, for we can come back without 
making any halt.” 

“ And how will we arrange matters on the is- 
land?” Ned asked. The Downs family, even with 
the Nera*s cook to help them, won’t be heavy enough 
to bring the craft down unless you spend considerable 
of the gas which has cost you so much trouble to 
make.” 

“ That comes in with the experiment, lad,” the 
owner of the yacht replied cheerily. I have no doubt 
as to our being able to sail from here to Seaview and 
back without mishap ; but am not so certain as to our 
anchoring and getting under way again. Each mem- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


19 


ber of the crew must stand by to obey orders promptly, 
and be exceedingly cautious in all his movements, for 
we mustn’t christen the Smuggler with a serious ac- 
cident.” 

This was the first intimation the boys or Zenas had 
that Mr. Sawtelle entertained any doubts as to the 
possibility of carrying out his plans successfully, and 
now that he had introduced to them this possible ele- 
ment of danger it was as if a new zest had been given 
to the proposed voyage. Not that either Paul or Ned 
courted danger, for they had been taught to shun it 
whenever opportunity offered; but the fact that the 
Smuggler might not be handled as had been proposed 
rather served to lend an agreeable air of excitement 
to the undertaking. 


i 


CHAPTER II 


THE TRIAL VOYAGE 

Although Paul and Ned had promised themselves 
that they would turn out ” bright and early on the 
morning when the trial voyage was to be made, they 
were both sleeping soundly in their room aboard the 
Neva when from across the harbor came a hail that 
might have been heard half a mile away : 

“ Aboard the Nera! Why don’t you lubbers turn 
out? If that ’ere crow-chaser of yours is goin’ to flit, 
now’s the time when she ought’er be spreading’ her tail 
feathers.” 

Paul was out of the bunk in an instant, looking 
through the small window in bewilderment, and be- 
fore Ned could ask the meaning of the uproar he said 
petulantly : 

“ I might have known that no one save Zenas’ 
pirate could howl so loudly ! ” 

“ Is it Captain Tobi? ” 

Of course. Do you know any one who can make 
more noise with his mouth than that same fat cap- 
tain ? ” and now Paul recovered his good temper as he 
realized that, so far as the weather was concerned, 
everything was most favorable for the voyage of the 
Smuggler. Not a breath of wind was stirring; the sky 
was cloudless, and although the sun had not yet shown 
himself above the eastern horizon, the poorest kind 
20 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


21 


of a weather prophet might safely have predicted 
a clear, windless day. 

“ Ahoy on the N era! ” Captain Tobi shouted again, 
this time more loudly than before, if indeed that could 
be possible. This 'ere is what you may call a weather 
breeder, an’ if you don’t try the crow-chaser ’twixt 
now an’ noon you won’t have another chance right 
away, for there’s a long wet spell ahead of us.” 

“ Can’t one of you boys shut that old pirate’s 
nouth ? ” came in an angry tone from Master Cushing’s 
room. “If I so much as yip to the id jut you’ll say 
I’m tryin’ to hair him up, for he can’t make decent 
talk no matter how hard he tries. Shut him up, that’s 
good boys; the sun won’t rise this half-hour, an’ 
there’s no sense in turnin’ out so early.” 

Paul went out on deck without heed to the fact 
that he was clad only in his pajamas, and no sooner 
did he appear than Captain Tobi roared : 

“ Do you people count on snoozin’ all day ? I 
thought the crow-chaser was goin’ to perform.” 

“We don’t intend to get up in the night, and that’s 
the fact. You’d better wait patiently, for Mr. Saw- 
telle isn’t in the habit of turning out before daylight, 
and he may not be overly well-pleased at such a row.” 

“ Any decent man would have been stirrin’ ’round 
an hour ago,” the old sailor growled as if he had real 
cause for grievance because the owner of the Neva 
had not yet shown himself, and before Paul could 
reply to such criticism Mr. Sawtelle’s voice could be 
heard from below : 

“ You’re locking the stable door after the horse has 


22 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


been stolen, lad. Captain Tobi’s voice is strong 
enough to arouse the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus, and 
we may as well turn out, for there’s no hope we’ll be 
able to get any more sleep now that he’s roaming 
around. What about the weather? ” 

“ Fine as silk ! Not a cloud in the sky, and so calm 
that the smoke from Daniel Downs’ chimney rises 
straight upward. Poor day for cruising on the water ; 
but I suppose it is ideal airship weather.” 

Pass the word for all hands, like a good fellow, 
and we’ll get under way immediately after break- 
fast.” 

There was little need to pass the word.” Every 
one aboard the yacht had been awakened by Captain 
Tobi, and Paul noticed that each member of the crew 
came on deck to learn what the weather indications 
were, thus giving good proof that the old sailor was 
not the only person on or near Barren Island who 
was eager to “ see the crow-chaser perform.” 

Half an hour later breakfast was served, and even 
Mr. Sawtelle ate hurriedly in order that the aerial 
voyage might be begun without delay, the owner of 
the N era seemingly apologizing for his haste by say- 
ing as he made frantic efforts to swallow the scalding 
hot coffee: 

As a rule I don’t put much dependence on what 
Captain Tobi may say; but so far as the weather goes 
he’s in the right this time — the day promises to be too 
fine, and we may reasonably expect a disagreeable 
change within a short time.” 

“ What about that ’ere crow-chaser ? ” came from 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


23 

the schooner in tempest-like notes. “ Have you all 
gone to sleep agin ? ” 

It was no longer possible for Zenas to control him- 
self ; running on deck before either Paul or Ned could 
prevent him, he shouted angrily : 

“ Why don’t you ’tend to that butter box of yours, 
instead of howlin’ so honest people can’t even think? ” 
Things would have to be mighty quiet before you 
could do any thinkin’, Zenas Cushin’. How does it 
happen that they’ve turned you loose? Is the cage 
busted?” 

This time it was Captain Tobi who had “ haired 
up ” Zenas, who actually turned pale with rage as he 
replied : 

“If you’ve got nothin’ better to do, take a turn 
around the hold of that ’ere butter box, an’ see if 
John Ed ain’t there, as you claimed he was when you 
left Apple Island ! ” 

Now it was Captain Tobi’s turn to dance in anger, 
and he roared more tempestuously than ever before: 

“ Don’t you fear but that I’ll cook John Ed’s goose 
for him some of these fine days, an’ when that’s been 
done I’ll ’tend to your case, for you’re needin’ to have 
your head shrunk two or three sizes till it’ll fit some 
old woman’s bonnet.” 

What might have been the result of this wordy war 
it is impossible to say; but just then, when Zenas was 
vainly struggling to choke back his wrath that he 
might make fitting reply, Mr. Sawtelle came on deck 
and sternly ordered him to make ready for going 
ashore. 


24 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ There’s no good reason why you should try so 
hard to stir him up, for you know how quickly he 
flies in a passion ” 

“ This time he’s the one who seems to be doin’ the 
stirrin’,” Zenas muttered as he hauled the tender 
alongside, and ten minutes later, much to the satis- 
faction of Captain Tobi, the crew of the airship were 
being set ashore by the cook, who was to act as ship 
keeper in the absence of the owner. 

When the boys arrived at the hangar they saw 
that Mr. Sawtelle had made some important changes 
in the outward rigging of the craft, all of which was 
intended to aid in getting her under way and making 
a landing. The ropes which held her to the heavy 
bags of sand had been doubled, running through pul- 
leys on the sides of the car in such a manner that it 
would be possible for those on board to set her free 
from the land without aid from any outside the crew. 

Mr. Sawtelle explained to all hands, to the end that 
there might be no confusion when the moment for 
starting arrived, how the ropes were to be used, and 
also how the two anchors were to be handled in alight- 
ing. Not until he was certain every member of the 
crew understood his orders did he give the word to 
haul the Smuggler out of the hangar. 

In order to accomplish this last, Mr. Downs, his 
two sons, and even Captain Tobi were called upon, 
and huge though the aerial craft was, the united efforts 
of all moved her as readily as if she had been a 
toy balloon. 

Immediately the Smuggler was in the open air, the 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


25 


engineer began testing the motor, and the machinists 
overhauled for at least the twentieth time every guy 
and brace, while Mr. Sawtelle gave his undivided at- 
tention to the steering gear, all of which preparations 
seemed to annoy Captain Tobi, who roared: 

What's the matter now ? Daniel Downs told me 
that the crow-chaser was in shape yesterday, an' yet 
you seem to be buildin' her over agin ! " 

“ Don't pay any attention to him; but get into the 
car while Ned and I see to it that the wireless ap- 
paratus is in order," Paul whispered as he literally 
pushed Zenas aboard when that young gentleman 
would have bandied words with the captain of the 
schooner. 

Master Cushing looked upon the wireless telegraph 
as their one great hope in event of a disaster. There 
was in his mind the thought that help could thus be 
summoned in case of an accident, and he failed ut- 
terly of taking into consideration the fact that in case 
an airship was disabled her end would be far too 
speedy to admit of calling for help. Because of his 
belief, however, he was soon so deeply interested in 
the apparatus, which had been set up in one end of 
the car with an antenna dropping outboard, that it is 
quite possible he forgot, or did not realize that Cap- 
tain Tobi was standing near by issuing orders impos- 
sible of execution, as if he had had long and varied 
experience in the art of sailing aerial craft. 

Speedily came the time when Mr. Sawtelle and his 
machinists were satisfied that everything was in 
proper sailing trim, and then word was passed for all 


26 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


hands to stand by the outward pulleys, that the big 
ship might be freed from the weight that held her to 
the earth. 

So careful was every member of the crew to obey 
instructions previously given by the owner of the 
Nera, that the work of getting under way was per- 
formed without a hitch. The bow of the balloon was 
slightly elevated by due manipulation of. the ropes ; the 
motor was started, but without being connected with 
the fan-like screw; the two owners of Barren Island 
took station on the elevated platform which might 
well have been called the bridge,” and then slowly, 
with no little grace, as Ned fancied, the Smuggler 
rose in the air free from the earth. 

The motor was connected with the propeller, and 
swiftly as a swallow takes flight the Smuggler darted 
upward and onward out over the foaming waters of 
the northerly cove, until she was poised upon the 
ocean, which looked like a sea of gold under the rays 
of the morning sun. 

It was not possible to perceive any motion on the 
huge craft, save the slight pulsations which came 
from the throbbing engine, and so smoothly had the 
ship mounted into the air that Zenas, who had been 
watching Mr. Sawtelle’s movements, was not aware 
she had begun to stir. Once he realized that the voy- 
age had begun, however, his delight knew no bounds, 
and but for the stern command from the helmsman 
he would have danced fore and aft as he shouted : 

‘‘ By crickey ! Who’d ever thought anythin’ like 
this could have been built! Talk about sailin’, why 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


27 

this beats cruisin’ even in the Nera. Say, Paul, do 
you allow she’s really goin’ ahead ? ” 

Look back at Barren Island, and there’ll be no 
need to ask such a question.” 

A long indrawing of the breath, which was much 
like a sigh of relief, told of the suppressed excitement 
in Master Cushing’s heart when he saw the home of 
the Smuggler already so far in the distance that it 
looked little more than a smudge on the clear blue 
sky. 

“ Say, but we must be goin’ some, eh ? Don’t she 
glide? I’ll drop somethin’ so’s to see how far we are 
away when it strikes the water.” 

Hold hard, Zenas,” Mr. Sawtelle cried sternly as 
Master Cushing bent over the side of the car as if to 
act upon his own suggestion. ‘‘ While we are in the 
air nothing whatever is to be thrown from the car. 
We have weighed our cargo to a nicety, and even the 
falling out of the smallest object might interfere with 
the trim.” 

This command brought Zenas inboard very sud- 
denly, and he sat bolt upright on the narrow ledge of 
bamboo which ran around the inside of the car, for- 
getting the wireless. Captain Tobi, John Ed Bingham, 
and in fact everything save that he was floating on 
the air as if he had been no more than the down of a 
thistle. 

If the crew of the Smuggler who were making 
their first aerial voyage had expected anything in 
the way of excitement, they were sadly disappointed. 
The motor worked almost silently and with the reg- 


28 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


ularity of the finest mechanism; the big ship hovered 
high in the air or dipped down to within an hundred 
feet of the sun-gilded ocean, and nothing save the 
whirring and beating of the propeller broke the si- 
lence. 

“ We are making a little more than thirty miles an 
hour,” Paul heard Mr. Sawtelle say to his partner, 
'' and we couldn’t ask for a better behaved ship than 
this same Smuggler. To-morrow, if the weather 
holds good, we’ll try her on a ten-hour cruise straight 
along the coast, and come back to the island without 
making a halt.” 

“ Look there ! Look there ! ” Zenas suddenly 
shouted in great excitement. I wouldn’t be afraid 
to bet my nose that yonder in the dory is John Ed! ” 

Following with their eyes the direction of Master 
Cushing’s outstretched hand, Paul and Ned saw be- 
low them, but at some distance to starboard, a 
weather-beaten dory with a single occupant, who, 
having ceased rowing, was gazing upward at the 
Smuggler j but without betraying the surprise which 
would have come upon one who beheld an aerial ship 
for the first time. 

“It is John Ed!” Paul cried emphatically after 
getting one glimpse at the upturned face. “If he 
has got a gun with him there’s a chance this voyage 
will come to a sudden end ! ” 

Something of the same thought must have been in 
Mr. Sawtelle’s mind, for immediately his attention 
had been directed to the water by the cry of Zenas, he 
sent the Smuggler on an upward course, rising so 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


29 


quickly that in a twinkling, as it were, one could no 
longer distinguish the form of the solitary boatman. 

“Are you certain that was Bingham?^’ Mr. Simp- 
son asked when the ship was riding on a “ level keel ” 
at a great distance from the water, and Paul replied 
decidedly : 

“ There isn’t the least little doubt about it. I got 
a good view of the fellow’s face, and couldn’t be mis- 
taken.” 

“If that is the case we’ll spend the greater portion 
of our time hunting for him, and once we come within 
hailing distance I’ll take extra good care he doesn’t 
give us the slip,” Mr. Sawtelle said gravely, as if he 
deemed the matter of vital importance. “With the 
Smuggler in the air, the Nera on the water, and the 
Hampton boat to put into every little cove, it’ll go 
hard if we can’t lay him by the heels. We’re to make 
it our business, lads,” he added with a smile as he 
glanced toward Paul and Ned, “ and I’m not certain 
we sha’n’t contrive to get considerable sport out of 
such a hunt. It’ll give us good practice in airship 
cruising, and will be better than sailing here or there 
without any definite purpose.” 

“ I did hope that after John Ed had given Captain 
Tobi the slip so neatly, and the Smuggler was ready 
for sailing, we’d heard the last of that old vil- 
lain,” Ned said with a long-drawn sigh : “ but it seems 
as if the same game was to be kept up, with him 
fooling us at every turn.” 

“ It’ll be precious little foolin’ he’ll do if Mr. Saw- 
telle gets after him accordin’ to the way he has laid 


30 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


out,” Zenas whispered excitedly. “ Talk about 
cruisin’! Sailin’ up an’ down the coast ain’t in it 
compared with a hunt where we’ve got an airship and 
two water craft for chasers. I’m jest beginnin’ to 
understand that things are goin’ to be mighty lively 
around Apple Island for the next few days.” 

Then Master Cushing, forgetting for the time being 
his admiration of the novel craft in which he was be- 
ing carried so swiftly over the water, would have 
formed plans leading to the discomfiture of Bing- 
ham; but he had hardly more than begun his specu- 
lations as to where would be the most likely place to 
start the man-hunt, when they arrived at Seaview. 
It was possible to see the people swarming out of 
the buildings like bees from a hive, and now and 
then could be heard shouts, or exclamations of sur- 
prise. 

“ Never mind what’s going on in the town,” Mr. 
Sawtelle cried sharply. Now is the time when we’re 
to make our first attempt at taking ground, and there 
must be no mistake, or the first voyage of the Smug- 
gler may be her last. Stand by the anchors, and if 
we succeed in making fast no person must leave the 
car till I give the word.” 

Then followed some very anxious moments, when 
the helmsman steered the ship to the brow of the hill, 
ordering the motor stopped just before the craft 
was at the highest point of land, when she began set- 
tling earthward, not suddenly, but like some huge 
bird that glides slowly down from the ether. 

“ Out with the anchors, and be certain that the 



THE HELMSMAN STEERED THE SHIP TO THE BROW OF THE HILL 







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FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


31 


grapples are caught fast before you put any strain on 
them ! ” Mr. Sawtelle cried, and in a twinkling every 
member of the crew, save the engineer, was leaning 
feverishly out from the car while aiding in swinging 
to and fro the odd-looking machines for holding the 
aerial craft to the earth. 

If the Smuggler’s crew had practiced at alighting » 
a full month the task could not have been performed 
in a more satisfactory manner. Without the slightest 
hitch or awkward movement, the big ship was firmly 
fastened to the hillside, and her designer said as he 
wiped from his forehead the perspiration which had 
been brought out by anxiety: 

“ Well done, lads. Now who shall say that air- 
ships which can be navigated, are not to be built on 
Barren Island ? By next spring we’ll be in condition to 
astonish the world ! ” 

While the huge craft was coming to an anchor the 
citizens of Seaview were climbing the hill, and by the 
time Mr. Sawtelle gave the word that one, or perhaps 
two, of the crew might go ashore ” for the purpose 
of proving the value of the anchors, nearly every man, 
woman and child in the village was gaping in open- 
mouthed astonishment at the novel ship. 

Mr. Mansfield, the shop-keeper, was the only mem- 
ber of the curious throng who dared to speak in the 
presence of such a wonderful visitation, and his one 
thought was of his absent friend. 

I only wish Cap’ in Tobi had been here to see 
what he’ll never believe unless by proof of his own 
eyes ! ” 


32 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


The captain was at Barren Island when we left,” 
Ned, who had alighted, said laughingly. 

'' An’ what did he say when the crow-chaser went 
up?” 

I don’t know ; we were so excited with getting 
under way that there wasn’t a chance to listen to his 
roaring.” 

‘'An’ I’ll bet he did roar! Say, lad, are you 
countin’ on stoppin’ ’round here very long ? ” 

It was Mr. Sawtelle who answered the question by 
saying sharply: 

“ Get aboard, you who have alighted. We didn’t 
come here for any other purpose than to try our hand 
at stopping and starting.” 

“ But you’re sure goin’ to give us a chance to look 
the crow-chaser over,” Mr. Mansfield said implor- 
ingly, and the owner of the Neva replied more 
curtly than the boys had ever heard him speak be- 
fore : 

“ I surely am not going to do anything of the kind. 
The last time I was here you saluted me with bullets, 
and I’m of the opinion that you’re not entitled to any 
lengthy exhibition.” 

“ But that wasn’t any of our crowd. Mister,” some 
one in the throng shouted. “ It was John Ed who 
fired at you; but he’s left these parts, for good an’ 
all, I reckon, so you needn’t have it in mind that any 
mischief will be done.” 

“ Stand ready to unloose the anchors,” Mr. Saw- 
telle shouted, not minded to call on the townspeople 
for assistance lest his crew should not have the needed 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


33 


experience. Haul gently on the gear until the grap- 
ples are loosened, and then work lively as she rises ! ” 

It was in Paul’s mind to tell the shop-keeper that 
he had seen Bingham evidently heading for Seaview; 
but before he could speak the words the grip of the 
anchors had given way as the relieving cords were 
pulled, and gently as she had descended the Smug- 
gler rose in the air, followed by the admiring shouts 
of the spectators. 

Like a bird the big ship rose above the brow of 
the hill, and then making a long curve to the east- 
ward, was headed for Barren Island, this time flying 
less swiftly than before, for her captain was minded 
to make experiments in order to learn how much, or 
how little, speed was necessary in order to keep her at 
any certain altitude. 

“ Keep your eyes open for that man in the boat,” 
Mr. Simpson leaned down from the bridge ” to say 
in a low tone to the boys and Zenas. I don’t fancy 
he will attempt to make any more trouble; but if 
we can lay him by the heels as Sawtelle suggests, it 
stands us in hand to know if you really saw him.” 

Whether by accident or design, the captain of the 
Smuggler aided in the search, for he kept the big ship 
within two hundred feet of the water until Zenas 
shouted as he pointed to a tiny speck on the ocean 
a long distance away: 

There is the old villain, an’ it’s him jest as cer- 
tain as that I’m makin’ the voyage of my life ! ” 

The Smuggler was sent higher and at a more rapid 
speed until she was within a short distance of the 


34 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


weather-beaten dory, and then, with a swift, rapid 
swoop, she glided downward, seemingly bent on 
crashing into the solitary boat, whose occupant must 
have feared something of the kind, for he rose to his 
feet, oar in hand as if to repel an attack. 

“So you’ve come back, have you, John Ed?” 
Zenas shouted just as the airship began to ascend. 
“ Cap’in Tobi is lookin’ for you. Come aboard, an’ 
we’ll give you a chance to talk with him.” 

“If that fat fool dares lay hands on me again he’ll 
get what’s cornin’ to him,” Bingham cried with an 
oath, “ an’ I’d give you the same dose you got a while 
ago, if I had a gun with me! Tell Tobi Thompson 
that I’m countin’ to settle with him for what he did 
at Apple Island.” 

He may have said more in the way of threats; 
but the ship was so far above and beyond him that 
the words could not be heard, and Zenas cried in a 
tone of triumph to the helmsman : 

“ Now I allow you won’t say that we haven’t seen 
John Ed! Folks who think he hasn’t got the nerve 
to go wherever he pleases, are makin’ a mighty big 
mistake.” 

“ I’m forced to agree that the man in the boat is 
Bingham, and I’m not sorry he has dared to come 
back,” Mr. Sawtelle replied grimly. “ From this on, 
until we put him where he belongs, you shall see 
such a chase as never before was known. In the air 
and on the water we’ll trail him, giving no heed to 
any other business until the work has been done by 
landing him in jail.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


35 


“ That’s all very fine,” Zenas whispered to Paul and 
Ned when Mr. Sawtelle ceased speaking; “but if he 
thinks he’s going to pick John Ed up whenever he’s 
in the humor, he’s got another think cornin’.” 

Even though John Ed Bingham had occupied such 
a large place in his life during the summer just past, 
Paul was giving him no heed at the moment, for the 
thought had come to him that if he was to get an 
answer by the wireless while the Smuggler was in 
the air, it was necessary he send out a call without 
delay, for so swiftly did the ship sail that the voyage 
from the mainland to Barren Island would be per- 
formed in less than twenty minutes. 

While he worked at the key Ned sat by eagerly 
watching every movement, hoping to hear the 
familiar sputtering of the apparatus whenever Paul 
stopped to listen for an answer. There was no es- 
pecial reason why a message should be sent or re- 
ceived, save that it would be a novelty in wireless 
telegraphy to communicate with those on the earth or 
ocean while they were in the air. 

Paul was yet striving to get into communication 
with some one, he had little choice who, when the 
Smuggler arrived ofif Barren Island, and he was 
forced to cease his efforts in order to do his share in 
the delicate task of coming to the earth. 

As a matter of course the entire Downs family. 
Captain Tobi, and the cook of the Nera were gathered 
near the “ hotel ” to welcome and assist the success- 
ful voyager, and with the help of the spectators added 
to the efforts of her crew, the big ship was brought 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


36 

to a standstill very speedily. The work of swinging 
her around and backing her into the hangar was a 
longer and more difficult task; but it was finally ac- 
complished, and when she was in the cradle once more 
with never a scratch or blemish, Mr. Sawtelle said 
with a long-drawn sigh of relief : 

“We have proven that our model is a success, and 
also that she can be handled easily. The worst I 
feared was that we might not be able to descend un- 
less a crew of men were at hand to lend assistance; 
but after our experience this morning I would not 
hesitate to alight on an uninhabited island, provided 
there was sufficient elevation to the land to permit of 
our getting a fair start.” 

Then the designer of the Smuggler and his partner 
went toward the harbor to board the yacht, where 
they ate and slept when the Nera was at moorings, 
and Daniel Downs, after the departure of his em- 
ployers, felt at liberty to ask questions. 

“ Did you pull up at Seaview ? ” 

“ That we did,” Zenas said triumphantly, as if only 
by his unaided efforts had such a thing been possible. 
“We staid there about as long as it would take to say 
‘ Jack Robinson,’ an’ then we put out to make certain 

it was John Ed we had seen in the boat ” 

“John Ed!” Captain Tobi cried loudly and 
hoarsely as he seized Zenas by the shoulder to attract 
his undivided attention. “ You don’t mean to stand 
there, Zenas Cushin’, an’ tell me that miserable scum 
of the earth is ’round here anywhere, do you? An’ 
he still owin’ me for the Zoe” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


37 


‘‘ I wasn’t meanin’ to tell you much of anythin’, you 
old pirate ! ” Master Cushing said angrily as he 
wrenched himself free from the old sailor’s grasp. 

You’re sich a master hand at catchin’ anybody you 
start after that there’s no need of tellin’ you what 
we’ve seen.” 

It was good proof of Captain Tobi’s excitement 
that he failed of giving way to anger when Zenas 
spoke thus disrespectfully; instead of heeding the 
petulant reply he wheeled about to face Daniel Downs, 
who stood trembling as if in abject fear, as he 
shouted : 

“ Do you allow, Daniel, that John Ed has really 
come back here after he knows I’m lookin’ for 
him? ” 

“ There’s no tellin’ what that man is capable of 
doin’,” Mr. Downs replied with an evident effort. 
“After you’d laid him by the heels as you did at 
Apple Island, I had hopes that he might give us a 
wide berth. Are you boys certain it was him you 
saw ? ” 

“ There is no mistake about it, for Mr. Sawtelle 
sent the Smuggler so near the water that we talked 
with him,” Paul said as he looked toward the old 
sailor to note the effect of his words. “ He even sent 
a message to Captain Tobi.” 

“ A message to me ? ” and the fat man roared in 
surprise and anger. “ Did that miserable scoundrel 
dare send any word to me when he’s still owin’ for 
the Zoef ” 

“ He said that he was countin’ to settle with you for 


38 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


what you did at Apple Island,” Zenas cried, only too 
well pleased with an opportunity to put a thorn in 
his enemy’s flesh. 

“ What I did at Apple Island ! I’ll give that ’ere 
schooner an’ all that’s on board her to know how he 
gave me the slip after I had him snug in the hold. 
Why, the man must be crazy to talk about settlin’ with 
me, unless he counts on payin’ his just an’ lawful 
dues.” 

“If John Ed has made a threat agin you, Cap’in 
Tobi, it stands you in hand to keep your eyes wide 
open every minute of the day an’ night,” Mr. Downs 
said with a solemn shaking of the head. “ Me an’ 
you know what he’s done in the past, an’ I never knew 
him to promise anythin’ of the kind that he didn’t 
keep his word.” 

Captain Tobi glanced furtively toward his schooner 
riding at anchor in the harbor, as if it was in his mind 
to seek safety by flight, and Zenas Cushing cried glee- 
fully : 

“ So you’re afraid, eh? You’re the bold man that 
took him single-handed an’ didn’t bring him here, an’ 
yet are scared out of your wits because that old scoun- 
drel has said he’d be even with you.” 

“ Who said I was afraid ? Who do you think is 
scared?” Captain Tobi roared, shaking his fist in 
Master Cushing’s face. “ For two cents I’d take you 
an’ John Ed an’ knock your heads together! ” 

“ Same’s you did when you an’ Daniel set out one 
night to make him prisoner,” Zenas retorted, and the 
fact that Master Cushing dared remind him of that 


39 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 

unlucky night drove the fat sailor into the last ex- 
treme of rage. 

He shook his fists wildly in the air; he strove to 
shout, but so great was his anger that the words 
tumbled over each other until only a jumble of sound 
came from his mouth, and then, stamping his foot by 
way of giving vent to his emotions. Captain Tobi 
waddled at full speed toward the shore of the harbor. 

That s allers the way with him,” Mr. Downs said 
mournfully as he gazed after his awkwardly moving 
friend. He flies all to pieces at any little word, an’ 
then there’s no use tryin’ to beat any sense inter him. 
But say, boys, did John Ed really send that word to 
Cap’in Tobi ? ” 

“ He certainly did,” Paul replied. “ We were near 
enough to hear and see him distinctly.” 

‘‘Did he say anythin’ ’bout me?” 

“ There wa’n’t time even if he had been so disposed, 
for we sailed past him swiftly. Surely, Mr. Downs, 
you’re not afraid of that old fellow after all that has 
happened ? ” 

“ It’s on account of all that’s happened that I’m 
scared,” was the whispered reply. “ I’ve lived on this 
island a good many years, an’ seen John Ed in fair 
weather an’ foul, so I ought’er know him right well, 
an’ I’m tellin’ you, lad, that when he promises to pay 
off old scores he never fails to do it. Ain’t it too 
bad that jest when this season is closin’ up so well, 
an’ the foxes are gettin’ to feel contented, he must 
mix us all up.” 

“ He won’t be allowed to do anything of the kind,” 


40 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Ned said confidently. '' Mr. Sawtelle is going to use 
the Smuggler and the Neva, searching for him, and 
you can set it down as the truth, that John Ed won’t 
stay out of jail many days longer.” 

He’ll live to dance over my grave,” Mr. Downs 
wailed, and Paul cried with a laugh : 

“ He’ll have to do his dancing mighty quick, for 
we’re to start out after him the first thing in the morn- 
ing, and I’m believing we won’t have to go any 
further than Seaview.” 

“ You won’t get to Seaview to-morrow no matter 
how many crow-chasers you’ve got,” and Mr. Downs 
looked up at the sky as if there he could read the 
story of a vain attempt. 

‘‘ Why?” 

“ ’Cause ’twixt now an’ sunrise we’re goin’ to have 
as bad a blow as you’ve ever seen. I know weather 
signs when I see ’em, an’ there’s no mistake in what 
was spread out before us this mornin’. Then while 
we’re cooped up here, John Ed can do about the same 
as he pleases, an’ we’ll have to stay an’ take it. 


CHAPTER III 


STORM-BOUND 

Little attention was given by the dwellers on Bar- 
ren Island to Daniel Downs’ predictions of a storm. 
Mr. Sawtelle and his machinists were fully occupied 
with going over the mechanism and gear of the 
Smuggler, examining every portion as carefully as a 
skilled workman looks into the works of a fine watch 
to learn if any portion of it may have been worn. Mr. 
Simpson, with Zenas and the boys, went cautiously 
through the thickets to ascertain if the foxes were 
undisturbed, and even Captain Tobi, versed in 
weather signs as he undoubtedly was, gave himself 
wholly up to the pleasure of eating rock cod and salt 
pork as prepared by Mrs. Downs. 

The owner of the Nera was so confident that on 
the morrow it would be possible to give the airship a 
longer trial cruise, that he was putting on board addi- 
tional supplies in the way of fuel and oil, weighing 
to the fraction of an ounce everything thus taken, to 
the end that the big craft should be trimmed to per- 
fection. 

Daniel Downs and his sons, however, were as busily 
engaged as that indolent trio well could be, in making 
preparations for a storm, by hauling their old dory 
high and dry up on the sands, storing an ample sup- 
41 


42 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


ply of fuel in the shed leading to the kitchen of their 
home, and, it must be confessed, spending the greater 
portion of the time watching others, lest something 
might be done and they remain in ignorance. 

That evening, when dinner was served on board 
the Nera, the proposed voyage was the sole topic of 
conversation. From a small chart of the coast Mr. 
Sawtelle pointed out the course he intended to sail, 
and measured with exceeding care the distances as 
set down by scale, to the end that the Smuggler might 
be sent as far from Barren Island as possible, admit- 
ting of a return to her hangar. 

It’ll be a great cruise,” Zenas whispered to Paul. 
'‘We went over to Seaview so fast that I didn’t really 
get a chance to enjoy it.” 

" You’ll have a good opportunity to get all the sen- 
sations to-morrow, for it seems certain that we shall 
be under way during nearly every hour of daylight.” 

" It can’t be too long to please me,” Master Cush- 
ing said in a tone of satisfaction. " I did think that 
runnin’ the Nera was about the best kind of sport that 
could be had; but this ’ere cruisin’ in the air knocks 
the spots out of everythin’ else.” 

In order that the crew might be in readiness for 
sailing as soon as the sun had risen, Mr. Sawtelle in- 
sisted that every one " turn in ” at a reasonable hour, 
he himself setting the example, and it was yet early 
in the evening when the last light aboard the Nera 
was extinguished. 

It was to Paul as if he had been asleep no more 
than two hours when the howling of the wind 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


43 


awakened him, and as he lay in his bunk wondering 
whether it was more than a night breeze, the rolling 
of the yacht caused him to leap out of bed very sud- 
denly. 

Must be quite a sea on,” Ned said sleepily as he 
turned over to continue his journey into dreamland. 

Indeed there is. I can’t understand why there 
should be such a swell here in the harbor, so I’m go- 
ing out to see what’s the matter.” 

Before he could get on sufficient clothing to admit 
of his venturing into the open air, Zenas entered the 
room seemingly in a state of excitement. 

“ From this time on I’m goin’ to set it down that 
Daniel Downs is a first-class weather prophet. The 
gale he predicted has come with a vengeance from 
the north-west, an’ ’cordin’ to the noise there’s surf 
enough right here in the harbor to make a landin’ 
ticklish work. This is the most sudden an’ a little the 
worst I’ve seen on this ’ere coast.” 

“ I don’t suppose there’s anything to be done but 
stay here and take what’s coming,” Paul said as he 
crept into bed again, for there was a touch of frost 
in the air which rendered extra covering to the body 
necessary for comfort. 

I reckon we’ve done all that’s needed jest now. 
All hands were called half an hour ago to get out 
another anchor, an’ now the Nera is moored stem 
an’ stern, with a kedge well out to west’ard in case 
the after mud-hook fails to hold. Perhaps it wasn’t 
somethin’ of a job to carry the kedge off in the ten- 
der! There’s a sea on such as would stagger a 


44 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


dory, an’ by the time the engineer an’ I had finished 
the job the little craft had aboard a full cargo of 
water.” 

‘‘Why didn’t you call us?” Ned asked sharply, 
and Master Cushing replied laughingly: 

“ I reckon we got along better without your help, 
’cause this is a time when . sailormen are needed. 
Daniel’s old tub of a schooner is pitchin’ an’ tossin’ 
fit to roll the spars out of her. We tried to waken 
the old pirate, so’s he could get out another anchor; 
but he’s most likely so full of rock cod an’ salt pork 
that he sleeps like a pig. Unless I’m mistaken he’ll 
find his craft ashore when ” 

“ All hands ahoy ! Tumble out lively ! ” was the 
cry from the deck which interrupted Master Cush- 
ing in his predictions, and as he opened the door to 
answer it, he said grimly: 

“ You can set it down that the schooner is adrift, 
an’ we’re like to have a mix-up.” 

The last words came mingled with the wailing of 
the wind and the thud of heavy footsteps on deck, 
causing both the boys to leap out of their bunks and 
make all haste in dressing. Although no more than 
three minutes elapsed before the lads were in the 
open air, the “ mix-up ” was close at hand. 

Staggering to the port rail, forced to clutch at 
everything immovable on their way so wildly was the 
Neva plunging, Paul and Ned could faintly distin- 
guish in the darkness the outlines of the schooner, 
weird and ghost-like, close aboard as she flung her 
bow high in the air only to plunge into the valley of 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


45 

waters ; but all the while working toward the helpless 
Nera. 

Strange as it may seem, there was no sound of 
life on the schooner, although nearly every person 
aboard the yacht was screaming at the full strength 
of his lungs in order to arouse the captain and crew. 
The wind was so strong, however, that any noise less 
than the booming of a cannon would have been swept 
southward, and it is a question whether, if all hands 
aboard the craft had been awake, they could have 
heard the warning cries. 

“ She’ll foul us sure,” Zenas said as he came to the 
side of the boys and stood striving to pierce the dark- 
ness with his eyes. ‘‘ With this wind she’ll strike 
heavy, an’ it ain’t any two to one she don’t cut us 
to the water-line.” 

Now it was Paul who heard faintly, as if from afar 
off, Mr. Sawtelle’s voice as he gave hurried com- 
mands, and Master Cushing darted away, calling to 
the boys to follow him. 

‘‘ Get out all the fenders ! Stand by to slacken 
the bow hawsers! Work lively when the screw 
moves ! ” 

It was evident even to Ned and Paul that the dan- 
gerous experiment of sending the yacht astern while 
two hawsers were stretched out in good position to 
be caught by the screw, was to be tried rather than 
take the chances of receiving the impact of the 
schooner if the waves sent her against the Nera 
amidships, and the boys made their way forward with 


46 AIRSHIP CRUISING 

difficulty to do their share in trying to save the ves- 
sel. 

Nearer and nearer plunged the schooner, the sway- 
ing spars showing faintly against the black sky, and 
when it seemed to Paul that nothing could prevent 
her from striking the Nera^s port side, bow on, Mr. 
Sawtelle shouted for the hawsers to be slackened. 
The yacht went astern ever so little under the impulse 
of the screw, but even that little was sufficient to save 
the dainty craft from being crushed like an egg-shell. 

Captain Tobi’s schooner struck the N era's bow 
with a force that, shattering the rail, flung the boys 
from their hold on the hawser, and then, her bowsprit 
fouling the fore rigging, she swung violently around, 
forcing the yacht’s stern to port until the heavy cables 
that had been sent out earlier in the evening were 
strained like fiddle strings. 

“ Lively with your axes ! ” Mr. Sawtelle shouted 
as he cut and hacked at the ropes that held the drift- 
ing schooner to the yacht, and in a twinkling every 
one aboard was working for dear life to free the 
Nera from her dangerous enemy, heeding not the in- 
jury done rigging and upper works so that a mortal 
hurt should not be inflicted. 

It was as if the wind howled more loudly and the 
waves increased in fury during those half dozen min- 
utes while the two craft were in close embrace, and 
even as they worked with the axes Paul and Ned lit- 
erally held their breath, in suspense, for it seemed 
certain that the yacht must be forced from her moor- 
ings, in which case destruction was inevitable. 





CAPTAIN TOBI'S SCHOONER STRUCK THE "NERA'S" BOW 






FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


47 


Amid the crashing of timbers, the blows of the 
axes and the shrieking of the winds could be heard 
Master Cushing’s shouts of triumph as the schooner 
was forced inch by inch, after the detaining ropes 
and spars had been severed, past the Neva's bow to- 
ward the southerly shore of the harbor, and not until 
then did Captain Tobi’s crew give token that they 
were alive. 

Despite all the tumult, the plunging of their vessel, 
and the shock which must have caused her to quiver 
and groan in every timber, the two men had slept; 
but now they were on deck, when they could no 
longer be of service in averting a catastrophe, run- 
ning to and fro like frightened chickens. 

Where’s your captain ? ” Mr. Sawtelle cried an- 
grily, and it was possible to hear the faint, tremulous 
reply : 

“ He didn’t come aboard last night. What has 
happened ? ” 

No one made any attempt to reply, and Zenas, 
coming once more to the side of the boys, said 
angrily : 

The old pirate couldn’t do any better than stay 
at Downs’, stuffin’ himself full of fish an’ pork, when 
he should have been lookin’ after his own vessel ! ” 

^‘Has she drifted past?” 

Yes, an’ is bound to pile up on the rocks, for the 
id juts aboard ain’t in condition to do anythin’, even 
if it was possible to help themselves. The question 
now is whether one of our bow hawsers parted when 
she swung clear? ” 


48 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


As well as they could amid the wreckage, for it 
seemed as if the Neva's bow had been completely 
shattered, the boys made their way forward to where 
the owners of Barren Island overhung the splintered 
rail, striving to make out in the blackness of the night 
whether the cables still held, and after what seemed 
like a long time of anxious suspense they heard Mr. 
Sawtelle shout in the ear of his partner : 

‘‘We have come out of the scrape in better shape 
than at one time seemed possible. Both hawsers ap- 
pear to be holding. We’ll have all hands here to take 
in the slack when the screw is started a bit to take 
off the strain.” 

During the next ten minutes every man aboard 
the yacht did his best to get the little craft into shape 
to ride out the storm, which appeared to be increas- 
ing, and then, the anchors fore and aft holding with 
sufficient scope to the hawsers, the crew went below 
to learn whether Captain Tobi’s schooner had in- 
flicted any more serious wound than could be seen on 
deck. 

“ She’s tight as a drum, sir,” the engineer said to 
his employer as he came into the forward cabin after 
a visit to the hold. “ I’m allowing that we came off 
with only the wrecking of the upper works, which was 
a mighty close shave, for there was one spell when 
I counted we’d go to the bottom in short order. The 
idea of that fat captain sleeping ashore when his 
craft was moored by a single cable, and most likely a 
rotten one at that ! ” 

“ There is nothing to prevent you lads from turn- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


49 

ing in again/’ Mr. Simpson said after hearing the 
engineer’s report. ‘Mf the yacht’s anchors hold we 
shall ride safely, and if they leave the ground there’ll 
be nothing we can do save watch as she strikes the 
shore.” 

If Paul’s father believed the boys would quietly 
return to bed after all the excitement, he was de- 
cidedly mistaken. It would have been impossible to 
close their eyes in sleep while the Nera was tossing 
and plunging like some wild thing, and again, there 
was in their minds the question as to the fate of those 
aboard the schooner. 

It was evident that the owners of the island desired 
to be alone, and the two lads followed Zenas when he 
motioned that he was going on deck once more. It 
was not a simple matter to make one’s way along the 
deck, and when the three were in the open air it was 
necessary that they should literally crawl on hands and 
knees in order to gain the wheel-house. 

Once there, however, with the windows closed 
tightly to shut out the frost-laden wind which sought 
entrance through every tiny crevice, they were, as 
Ned laughingly said, “ snug and comfortable.” 

Which is more’n can be said for them as are 
aboard the schooner,” Zenas added as he strove in 
vain to peer through the darkness which enveloped 
yacht and shore as with an impenetrable veil. 

Would it be possible they could drown?” Paul 
asked in a whisper, speaking as one does in the pres- 
ence of the dead, and Master Cushing replied in a 
more cheerful tone: 


50 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


I ain’t allowin’ it’s quite so bad as that. Of 
course the old tub went ashore, ’cause there was 
nothin’ else she could do; but ’cordin’ as she was 
headin’ when I saw her last, she most likely struck 
broadside on, an’ the surf can’t be strong enough yet 
to break her up. Anyway, it’ll be quite a spell be- 
fore Cap’in Tobi puts to sea in her again.” 

“ It’s the end of her if she has driven ashore,” 
Paul suggested, whereupon Zenas said with the air of 
one experienced in such matters : 

“ That ain’t so certain, lad. If she took the ground 
without smashing in too many of her timbers, an’ 
this ’ere storm don’t hang on too long, I reckon it 
wouldn’t be any very big job to float her, providin’ 
we had crew enough. I reckon we won’t start out 
on that cruise in the airship for quite a spell.” 

Mr. Sawtelle will be eager to try the Smug- 
gler as soon as the wind dies away,” Ned sug- 
gested. 

‘‘ There’s a question in mind as to how she’s ridin’ 
out this gale. That shed ain’t what you might call 
air-tight, an’ if it should be filled with wind it 
wouldn’t take more’n one or two big gusts to rip 
things up in great shape.” 

This was a possibility which had not occurred to 
the boys, and now in addition to what might be the 
fate of the schooner and the yacht, was the fear that 
the Smuggler had been, or would be, injured past 
repair. 

‘‘ It’s no use to moon over it,” Zenas said with' an 
attempt at a cheery tone as the boys suddenly fell 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


51 

into gloomy silence. “ This ’ere gale is ragin’, an’ 
we are bound to take what’s cornin’. All our frettin’ 
won’t change things a little bit, so it’s a case of 
chirkin’ up till daylight, unless so be you fellows 
would like to turn in once more.” 

“ I couldn’t go below at such a time as this,” Ned 
said with a shudder of fear, and Paul stretched him- 
self out on the cushioned locker, as if to say that what 
rest was to be gained before morning would be taken 
by him there in the wheel-house. 

After Zenas had suggested that the Smuggler 
might have come to grief the conversation lagged, 
each fellow busy with gloomy thoughts, and thus it 
was that, almost in silence, save for the pounding of 
the heavy waves against the side of the yacht and the 
howling of the wind, the night passed. 

Although the first light of a new day was leaden 
and forbidden, it was like unto the coming of a 
friend, and the occupants of the wheel-house stood 
at the windows eagerly awaiting the moment when 
it would be possible to distinguish surrounding ob- 
jects. 

The storm had not abated; the waves were roll- 
ing furiously up on the shore of the harbor ; the wind 
shrieked and howled amid the yacht’s tattered rig- 
ging, and the little craft was dancing and tossing even 
more wildly than at that time when Captain Tobi’s 
schooner threatened to wreck her. 

Slowly objects near at hand came into view, blurred 
by the heavy downpour of water, and after it seemed 
as if they had been staring landward a full hour, 


52 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


it was possible to make out the shape of the schooner, 
on her beam-ends lying high up on the shore. 

Looks like she’s been picked up an’ laid there,” 
Zenas said after a close scrutiny. “ So far as I can 
make out she hasn’t got so much as a scratch, except 
for what we gave her with the axes when she clung 
so tight. That’s jest like the luck of that old pirate; 
if I’d owned her she’d be smashed into kindlin’ wood 
by this time, yet there she lays, ready to be hauled off 
when the time an’ tide comes right.” 

“ There are the pieces of Mr. Downs’ dory,” Paul 
cried as Zenas ceased speaking. “ She wasn’t hauled 
far enough ashore, and the waves have pounded her 
to splinters on the rocks. Can anybody see the 
hangar ? ” 

‘‘ I can make out the shape of it; but it isn’t light 
enough yet to tell whether it held its own against the 
wind ” 

Look yonder, toward Swallow-tailed Cove ! ” 
Zenas interrupted excitedly. “ It seems as if I could 
make out the spars of some craft, an’ if that’s the 
case Cap’in Tobi’s butter tub ain’t the only wreck 
’round these parts.” 

Five minutes later all three could see with reason- 
able distinctness the spars of a vesel seemingly in- 
land within a short distance of the wireless station, 
and Paul ran below to awaken his father, Ned saying 
excitedly as his cousin departed hurriedly: 

“We must get on shore this very minute! Who 
knows but that there may be some one on yonder 
wreck needing help ? ” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


53 


“ I reckon it’ll be quite a spell before you do any- 
thin’ of the kind, lad,” Zenas said grimly. ‘‘We 
can’t use Daniel’s dory, ’cause there isn’t enough of 
it left, an’ our tender wouldn’t live five seconds in 
such a sea. Hello, where’s the small power-boat? 
The Hampton seems to have ridden all right, most 
likely on account of bein’ close under the lee of the 
land; but the other craft is piled up ashore some- 
where. If the Smuggler is all right we’ll be mighty 
lucky.” 

He had hardly more than ceased speaking when 
the owners of the island entered the wheel-house fol- 
lowed by Paul, and by the aid of Mr. Sawtelle’s ma- 
rine glasses it was possible to make out that some 
craft — a pleasure yacht by the appearance of the 
spars, — was on the rocks nearly at the head of Swal- 
low-tailed Cove. 

Each moment the blackness of night was giving 
way to the forbidding grayish hue of day, and before 
the occupants of the wheel-house had come to an end 
of inspecting the spars of the wreck, it was possible 
to see a curl of smoke arising from the chimney of 
Daniel Downs’ home. 

“ So the old idler has turned out at last ! ” Zenas 
cried. “ I’ll go bail he slept all night, an’ Cap’in Tobi 
kept him company. Now perhaps them two old duf- 
fers will get a move on, for it strikes me they’ve 
got considerable work cut out for ’em ! ” 

Despite all their anxieties the occupants of the 
wheel-house could not refrain from laughter when 
they saw Captain Tobi, only partially dressed and 


54 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


hatless, come rolling out of the house, look wildly 
around, and then start toward his stranded schooner 
as rapidly as his fat legs could carry him. 

“ Jest woke up to the fact that somethin’s wrong 
with his butter tub,” Zenas cried. Pity he hadn’t 
waited till the storm blew over so’s he wouldn’t get 
wet!” 

A few moments later, and before Captain Tobi had 
reached the shore, Daniel Downs came from the 
house, looked around as his fat friend had done, and 
then set off at full speed in the direction of Swallow- 
tailed Cove. 

‘‘We must go ashore at once,” Mr. Simpson said 
as he opened the door, letting in a perfect shower of 
water, and Zenas, regardless of good manners, pushed 
his way past as he cried: 

“ Hold on a minute, sir, till I get back.” 

It seemed as if he had hardly more than gained 
the outer air when he returned with the information : 

“ The tender is smashed to splinters — only a piece 
of the bow hangin’ to the painter. Daniel’s dory is 
wrecked, the small motor boat is ashore or gone out 
to sea, an’ I can’t make out how you’re to land, 
sir.” 

“But we must!” Mr. Simpson exclaimed. “It 
may be there are people perishing on yonder wreck, 
and we must do what we can to lend assistance ! ” 

“ You can’t swim while the sea runs so high, an’ 
it bothers me to know how you’ll get there,” Zenas 
replied as he rubbed his nose reflectively, and Mr. 
Sawtelle darted from one window to another as if 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


55 

believing it might be possible for him to see some way 
out of the difficulty. 

It surely seemed as if they were held prisoners 
aboard the yacht until the storm should subside, and 
how long that might be no one could guess, for the 
gale was yet as fierce as before daybreak, and there 
were no signs of clearing. 

One after another of the helpless party suggested 
this or that possibility, each wilder and more im- 
probable than the last, and no real hope of escape 
had presented itself when Daniel Downs appeared on 
the northern shore of the harbor. Here the wind 
would carry his voice to those on the Nera, and, as 
a matter of course, serve to prevent him from hear- 
ing what his employers might say. 

The wreck of a big schooner yacht lays in Swal- 
low-tailed Cove, an’ there are people aboard; but how 
am I to get at ’em? ” 

Mr. Sawtelle screamed himself hoarse trying to 
make the old man understand that he and his sons 
must unaided undertake the work of rescue, and then 
Zenas conceived one of his famous plans. Taking 
station at the port rail, and using his hands as a 
megaphone, he succeeded after most violent effort in 
conveying his commands, which were that he was to 
bring from the hangar two coils of inch rope, and 
with this both Ernest and Sam. 

Why didn’t you tell him what you count on do- 
ing with the rope? ” the owner of the Nera asked im- 
patiently. 

“ Because it would take too long. The boys ain’t 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


56 

overly bright, but theyVe got a bit more sense than 
the old man. Pll make one of them go over to the 
south shore, an’ there, with the wind to carry my 
voice. I’ll be able to straighten things out if they’re 
not too cowardly.” 

Zenas’ plan, as he explained it during Daniel 
Downs’ journey to the. hangar, was for one or both 
of the boys to swim out to the Hampton, carrying 
with them an end of the rope their father would bring. 
This could be done, at some cost of severe exertion, 
because the power dory was moored well under the 
lee of the north shore, where the surf was compara- 
tively light. 

Once aboard the craft Zenas proposed that Daniel 
with a turn of the rope around a stunted oak grow- 
ing near the water’s edge, let the Hampton boat drift 
down to the yacht, when Master Cushing believed he 
could scramble aboard before she could be dashed to 
pieces against the Nera's side. 

Nearly an hour was spent in making the boys un- 
derstand what was to be done, and then Sam flatly 
declared that he would not venture his precious body 
on any such fool trick ; ” but Ernest was finally per- 
suaded, on promise of two dollars from Mr. Sawtelle, 
with the agreement that, having made the rope fast 
on board the Hampton boat, and raised the anchor, 
he was to swim back to the starting point, where he 
could aid his father and Sam in paying out the haw- 
ser. 

It seemed to Paul and Ned as if nearly the entire 
forenoon was spent in such preparations, and during 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


57 


all this time nothing had been seen of Captain Tobi, 
although Zenas declared more than once that he could 
hear him “ bellowing ” for his men to come ashore. 

Ernest had no difficulty in gaining the Hampton 
boat, and those on the yacht watched with anxiety as 
he made fast the hawser and raised the anchor. Then 
they saw him go overboard again, swimming des- 
perately for the shore, and Zenas muttered : 

It’ll be quite a spell before he makes land. Why 
couldn’t the id jut understand that he was better off 
on board the boat, than while trying to swim against 
both wind and current ? ” 

Immediately the Hampton boat was loosed from 
her moorings she drifted rapidly toward the yacht, 
and Zenas had no more than time to throw off 
the heaviest of his clothing before she was close 
aboard. 

Then it was, and before any one could prevent him. 
Master Cushing leaped overboard into that boiling, 
yeasty water on the small chance of being able to se- 
cure a hold upon the boat when he came to the sur- 
face. It seemed more probable that he would be 
dashed to death against the side of the Nera, or 
flung, the sport of wind and wave, to the southerly 
shore, for no human being could hope to make head- 
way, or even hold his own against the angry sea and 
powerful wind. 

Zenas was ready to take any risks on the hope of 
succeeding, however, and this time if never before 
fortune was with him. He came to the surface di- 
rectly alongside the Hampton boat, and almost be- 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


58 

fore the watchers were aware of his safety he was 
in the craft motioning frantically for Daniel to check 
her. 

“ There never was an inch rope spun that would 
stand the strain of that boat at such a time as this! ’’ 
Mr. Sawtelle cried, and then shouted for all hands to 
bring the supply of spare fenders that some little ef- 
fort might be made to guard the yacht when the 
heavy Hampton was flung upon her. 

As a matter of fact, Zenas had already taken into 
consideration the strength of the hawser, and the 
Nerd's owner had hardly more than shouted his com- 
mands when the screw of the Hampton was reversing, 
thus taking the strain from the rope. 

I’ve got her now where I can handle her ! ” Mas- 
ter Cushing shouted in a tone of triumph. ‘Hf any 
of you want to go ashore, get into the bow an’ make 
a jump from there when I slide past.” 

Paul, Ned and the engineer were eager to make the 
attempt; but considerable urging was necessary be- 
fore Mr. Simpson would give his permission for the 
boys to undertake any such dangerous venture, and 
it was only when Paul urged that they might possi- 
bly be able to save the lives of those on the wrecked 
yacht that he consented. 

It was when the boys ran forward to make ready 
for the coming of Zenas that they understood for the 
first time how much damage Captain Tobi’s schooner 
had wrought. For a distance of twenty feet on either 
bow the rail of the yacht had been splintered, and in 
several places even the deck planking had been ripped 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


59 

up, while all the fore rigging was swinging at the 
sport of the wind like signals of distress. 

“ It’s a wonder the schooner didn’t tear our bow 
completely off,” Ned said as he made his way with 
difficulty among the wreckage, and Paul cried 
sharply : 

“ Never mind what happened last night ; it’s Zenas 
you’re to look for. Don’t think of anything save 
getting aboard the Hampton, for if we make any mis- 
calculations it’s good-bye sure.” 

So rapid was the movement of events from this 
moment that even the owners of the island, who stood 
well forward watching anxiously and fearfully, could 
hardly take note of what happened before the Hamp- 
ton swung under the stem of the Neva, the boys and 
the engineer leaped aboard, and Zenas, casting loose 
the hawser that had thus far checked the speed of 
the boat, was sending her ahead at full speed in a 
wide circle that he might gain the northern shore 
from which she had started. 

There is no more powerful boat of her size than 
this same Hampton, and she was under command of 
one who knew how to run her to the last fraction of 
speed, yet she struggled slowly against the powerful 
wind, at times hardly seeming to move, although 
creeping inch by inch toward the lee of the land. 

More than once before the harbor was crossed did 
the watchers on the Neva believe that the little craft 
would be driven back to destruction; but with Zenas 
at the helm and Paul at the motor, while the engineer 
and Ned bailed constantly the floods of water that 


6o 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


came over the rail, she steadily gained in the battle 
with the elements until, after struggling a full hour, 
she was in shoal water, partially sheltered from the 
wind, and with her anchor down. 

After that it was only necessary for those on board 
to wade ashore, when they signaled their triumph by 
waving their arms vigorously, and then set off at full 
speed up the hill in the direction of Swallow-tailed 
Cove, passing very near the Smuggler's hangar as they 
hastened forward. 

A single glance was sufficient to show that the 
heavy doors had been wrenched from their fastenings, 
and although the little company were too eager in 
their errand of merty to make any halt for the pur- 
pose of ascertaining how much damage was inflicted, 
they understood only too well that no little harm had 
been done the Smuggler during the night. 

Now it’ll be a case of patchin’ the airship up, an’ 
before that can be done I’m allowin’ winter’ll be so 
near Mr. Sawtelle won’t do very much cruisin’ before 
spring,” Zenas cried, speaking with difficulty as he lit- 
erally fought his way up the hill against the terrific 
gale. 

‘'We won’t think of airships until we find out 
whether any one is in danger aboard the wreck,” Paul 
replied sharply. “ Since we saw Captain Tobi’s 
schooner bearing down upon us I have come to believe 
that it doesn’t matter very much if we never make 
another cruise in the Smuggler. Where are Daniel 
Downs and his precious sons ? ” 

“ Back here less’n half a mile doin’ their best to 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


6i 


travel slow for fear they’ll find a bit of hard work 
cut out for ’em. What I’m askin’ myself is, what’s 
that old pirate doin’? I haven’t much faith in his 
bein’ able to do more than bellow; but he ought’er 
know how to handle a wreck better’n we do.” 

“Perhaps he’ll come up after a while; but if he 
doesn’t we’ll send one of the Downs boys after 
him ” 

“ An’ never see hide nor hair of either till the folks 
drown or we contrive to lend ’em a hand,” Zenas 
grumbled, and then darted forward with renewed 
energy until he had arrived where he could have a 
full view of the cove. 

The situation appeared even more desperate than 
their worst fears had pictured it. The vessel, and 
there was no question now as to her being a pleasure 
yacht, had been driven directly in between the two 
reefs which formed the sides of the cove, and was 
piled up on the ledge midway from the entrance to 
the head, where the waves were making a clean 
breach over the stern. In the bow could be indis- 
tinctly seen a small group of people who were evi- 
dently lashed to the foremast, and now were aware 
of the approach of human beings, as could be told by 
their feeble attempts to make signals for help. 


CHAPTER IV 


LIFE SAVING 

Even at the first glimpse of the wreck Zenas and 
the boys realized that, under the present circum- 
stances, they were powerless to aid those unfortunate 
ones who were signaling for help. The surf, at all 
times high in Swallow-tailed Cove because of the 
ledge of rocks at the entrance, was redoubled in fury 
by the furious wind which swept directly into the 
false harbor, driving the waters ten feet higher than 
ever before in the experience of the boys. 

The stanchest dory built could not have gained 
the disabled schooner from the inland owing to the 
impossibility of launching her, while to approach 
from seaward would have been equally futile because 
the ledge at the entrance, now just showing above the 
surface, could not be passed. The heavy waves struck 
the wreck resounding blows, and Paul fancied he could 
see the hulk quiver under each assault, while the frag- 
ments which were being thrown ashore from time to 
time told that she was being torn apart piecemeal and 
with no little rapidity. 

There won’t be anything left of her by noon,” 
Ned cried in a tremulous voice as he turned aside to 
shut out from view those poor wretches who were 
struggling to attract attention as if fancying they had 
not yet been seen. 


62 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


63 

‘‘ An’ we can’t so much as raise a finger toward 
helpin’ ’em,” Zenas added, “ leastways, I ain’t able to 
figure how it might be done. Perhaps Cap’in Tobi 
could work out a plan, though I haven’t any faith in 
the old pirate’s opinion on matters generally ; but when 
it comes to a case of this kind he ought’er have better 
idees than any of us.” 

“ Here come the Downs boys, and I’ll send one of 
them back to ask Captain Tobi to come here,” Paul 
said as he ran toward the father and sons who were 
leisurely climbing the hill as if believing there was no 
especial reason why they should make haste. 

Daniel Downs had arrived at that point where he 
could have a view of the wreck before Paul came up 
with him, and an exclamation of fear and pity burst 
from the old man’s lips : 

“ God have mercy on the poor creeters ; they’ve 
struck the one place hereabouts where man can’t help 
’em!” 

We hoped that Captain Tobi might suggest some 
plan, and I want you to send Ernest after him as 
quickly as possible.” 

“ With no boat, even if one could be launched, 
which is way out of the question, the best sailor who 
ever lived couldn’t rig up any scheme to get at ’em. 
Howsomever, it won’t do any harm to bring the cap’in 
up here, though I reckon he’s near crazy over the 
strandin’ of his schooner.” 

Then the old farmer gave the necessary instructions 
to Ernest, who set off toward the harbor with unusual 
alacrity, while his father pressed onward to where 


64 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Zenas and Ned were standing, forced to exert all their 
strength against the wind in order to retain a foot- 
ing on the wet rocks. 

During perhaps five minutes the old man and Sam 
remained gazing at the pitiable scene, and then Daniel, 
fighting his way inch by inch, went toward that portion 
of the cove where bits of wreckage were being cast 
up by the sea. Paul and Ned watched him, for no 
other reason than that it served to keep them from 
gazing at the suffering which they were powerless to 
allay, until suddenly, after apparently examining with 
care some article on the shore which he dragged be- 
yond reach of the angry waves, he raised himself from 
a stooping position and waved his arms frantically. 

“Do you suppose he has found a — a — a body?” 
Ned asked in a tone of fear ; but the question was not 
answered, for with one accord all his companions set 
off at full speed to join Mr. Downs. 

Arriving at the place where he had halted regard- 
less of the fact that the wind was sending the spray 
over him in sheets, it was seen, much to the relief of 
all, that his attention had been attracted to what at first 
glance appeared to be the side timbers and stern of a 
small boat. 

“ One of the schooner’s tenders, I reckon,” Zenas 
said carelessly. “That won’t be the only piece of 
wreckage that comes ashore here this day,” and he was 
about to turn back to avoid the flood of water, when 
Daniel shouted : 

“ Look at it a bit closely, Zenas Cushin’, an’ tell me 
whether you’ve ever seen it ? ” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


65 

As he spoke he up-ended the fragment until it could 
be seen clearly, and on the instant Master Cushing 
cried in a tone of awe : 

“If that ain’t part of John Ed’s dory I’ll eat it! 
How did it come here? Do you allow that he might 
be aboard yonder wreck?” 

“ That’s what I can’t say,” was the reply indis- 
tinctly heard above the roaring of the wind. “ Any 
way, here it is, an’ I’m askin’ where is John Ed?” 

“ It might have drifted ashore before this storm 
began,’’ Paul suggested, and Mr. Downs shook his 
head decidedly as he replied mournfully : 

“ I went clear around the shore of this ’ere cove 
yesterday when I was watchin’ your crow-chaser, an’ 
if it had been here then I’d sure seen it.” 

“ But the old smuggler can’t be on that schooner! ” 
Paul cried, and Zenas muttered as if simply giving 
words to his thoughts : 

“ It wouldn’t be so very strange if the captain of 
that craft had picked the old fellow up as a pilot when 
he found himself so near a bad part of the coast.” 

“ But if it should chance that he’s with that crowd 
in the bow, why doesn’t he try to swim ashore ? Surely 
he knows this island as he does his own home, if he’s 
got one, and ” 

“ The better he knows it, lad, the more certain he’d 
be to stick by the wreck to the last minute trustin’ to 
this gale’s blowin’ itself out by sunset. No livin’ man 
could swim from there here, ’cause the life would be 
knocked out of him by the rocks before he’d fairly 
taken to the water,” 


66 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Although Bingham had shown himself to be a bit- 
ter enemy of those on the island, the boys could not 
but feel real pity for the poor wretch whom they had 
come to believe was huddled with the other creatures 
who were looking death in the face even though so 
near the land where was life and a shelter from the 
pitiless gale. 

They were still standing around the fragment of the 
old dory, alternately gazing at it and then at the wreck, 
when Captain Tobi came up, breathing heavily because 
of the exertion of climbing the hill and struggling 
against the storm. 

For the first time in his life, perhaps, Zenas had no 
word of anger or irony with which to greet the old 
sailor; in the presence of that little group amid the 
surf where mortal aid could not avail, all feelings save 
those of charity were banished. 

What do you think of it? ” Master Cushing asked 
after Captain Tobi had remained silent and motion- 
less gazing at the wreck a full minute, his eyes shaded 
by his hands. 

‘‘ There^s nothin’ to be thought of, lad, except that 
those poor creeters are bound to go into the next 
world ’twixt now an’ sunset, unless so be this ’ere 
gale slackens a bit, an’ even then the surf will run 
mighty high for quite a spell.” 

'‘We were in hopes you might suggest some plan,” 
Paul began, but the old sailor interrupted him by say- 
ing harshly : 

" There’s no plan mortal man can make in this 
gale. The only thing for us to do is to stand watch 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


6 / 

here so that when the craft breaks up we may 
make a try at haulin’ some of ’em ashore, though 
it ain’t possible any can come over them rocks 
alive.” 

“ It seems as if we should be able to do something, 
sir.” 

“ Ay, lad, an’ so we would if our hands weren’t 
tied by the gale an’ the sea. I’ve got my schooner to 
look after — of course you know she’s ashore; — but I 
can’t lift a finger toward floatin’ her till the weather 
changes, an’ I’ll agree to stop here with Daniel while 
you boys an’ Zenas make a try at gettin’ the owners 
of this ’ere island off the yacht. They’re makin’ all 
kinds of signals, an’, as I allow, are mighty nigh 
crazy at bein’ cooped up on the Nera/' 

“What about that, Cap’in Tobi?” and Zenas 
pointed to the wreck of the dory. 

For an instant the old sailor gazed at the weather- 
worn fragment with mild curiosity, as if wondering 
why his attention had been called to it, and then he 
began to recognize certain marks which could not well 
be mistaken by those who had often seen the craft in 
sailing trim. 

“If that ain’t John Ed’s boat I don’t want a cent! 
How on earth did ” 

Captain Tobi straightened up to look searchingly at 
the wreck of the schooner; but owing to the veil of 
spray which half hid it from view it was impossible 
to distinguish any one of the group that clung to the 
shattered bow. 

“ They must have picked him up as a pilot,” Daniel 


68 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Downs suggested, and Captain Tobi nodded his head 
in a mournful way. 

“ You are right, Daniel, an’ now he’s come to the 
end of his rope without a show of sneakin’ off! He’s 
caused me many a sleepless night, with his capers an’ 
what he still owes on the Zoe; but I can’t say a word 
agin him at sich a time as this when he’s dingin’ to 
life by the skin of his teeth. Why don’t you go down 
to the harbor, Zenas, an’ see if you can’t work the 
Hampton boat down to the yacht agin ? Me an’ Daniel 
will stay here, though there’s nothin’ we can do in the 
way of lendin’ a hand.” 

Paul, eager to escape from such a distressing scene, 
urged Master Cushing to do as the captain had ad- 
vised, and the three ran at full speed down the hill, 
literally blown along by the wind. 

“ I’m doubtin’ if Mr. Sawtelle or Mr. Simpson will 
take the chances of jumpin’ aboard the Hampton as 
you lads did; but we’ll make a try of it,” Zenas said 
when the three halted on the shore within a few yards 
of where the power-boat lay snugly moored under the 
lee of the land. Howsomever, I’d rather be workin’ 
back an’ forth across the harbor, even if no good came 
of it, than up yonder watchin’ them poor creeters. 
We’ll try the same game as before; you lads stand 
here to ease her down with the hawser. When I wave 
my hand once you’re to snub her, an’ twice means to 
pay out rope.” 

Master Cushing was one who did not linger over 
a dangerous or a disagreeable task. Even while speak- 
ing he had been throwing off a portion of his clothing 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


69 

preparatory to swimming out to the Hampton boat, 
and having made ready he started, with one end of 
the inch-rope between his teeth. 

Within five minutes he had made the hawser fast; 
looked after the motor to make certain he could start 
it on the instant when need arose, and gave the word 
for the boys to slacken on the rope as he raised the 
anchor. 

Take care to get a good turn around that tree so 
that you can snub her if I give the signal. I’m al- 
lowin’ it’ll take longer to get the owners of this ’ere 
island on board than it did when we tried the 
trick.” 

By the time he had said this the wind caught the 
small boat, carrying her with wonderful swiftness to- 
ward the Nera, and Paul and Ned had hardly more 
than taken two turns around the stump of the tree be- 
fore came the signal to check her. 

“ This rope won’t keep her if Zenas counts on hold- 
ing steady any length of time,” Paul said anxiously 
as the hawser whipped the waves under the strain, and 
Ned added grimly: 

If it don’t his only chance is to run her ashore 
near Captain Tobi’s schooner, unless he can start the 
motor mighty quick. She won’t be the only wreck 
on Barren Island this day.” 

Master Cushing had a very good idea, however, of 
the strength of the rope, and did not propose to sub- 
mit it to too severe a strain. As nearly as the watchers 
could judge, he had made the signal to check her only 
that he might give certain directions to those aboard 


70 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


the yacht, and this done the waving of his arms told 
that the hawser was to be slackened once more. 

The distance was too great, and the falling rain too 
heavy to admit of the boys seeing all the details of 
Master Cushing’s manoeuvres. They could tell, how- 
ever, that the Hampton was run under the Neva's 
bow as before, and during the shortest possible space 
of time several seemingly flying figures went over the 
bow, after which all strain was removed from the 
rope. 

“ He has cast ofif the hawser, and the question now 
is whether he can bring the Hampton around before 
she is blown ashore,” Paul said anxiously as he hauled 
in the rope which had done such good service that 
day. 

That Zenas could bring the boat around in time 
was seen as the little craft swung up into the wind, 
and then, buffeted from side to side, appeared to be 
struggling like some living thing against the elements. 
Slowly, so slowly that during ten minutes or more it 
was impossible for the watchers to say if she was 
making any headway, the Hampton boat moved to- 
ward the starting point until it was possible for the lads 
to see that she had on board a full cargo. 

‘‘ There’s your father, Mr. Sawtelle, the engineer 
and the two machinists aboard! ” Ned cried when it 
was possible to distinguish the forms in the spray-en- 
veloped craft. “ Why did he take such a heavy load ? 
It was bad enough when we came ashore, and the 
Hampton had all she could stagger under; but now 
she’s too deep in the water to make headway.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


71 


I suppose when that crowd started to come over 
the bow Zenas couldn't help himself/’ Paul said 
grimly. “ With the boat under the Neva's bow and 
the surf running as it does now, a fellow can’t very 
well stop to choose his passengers.” 

It seemed to the watchers on the shore a very long 
while before the heavily laden boat gained her former 
mooring place, and then, as others had done before 
them, the passengers leaped over the rail, half swim- 
ming, half-wading ashore. 

Instead of waiting to learn the particulars of the 
wreck in Swallow-tailed Cove as Paul and Ned had 
expected, every man set off up the hill at full speed, 
Mr. Simpson crying out as he ran that the boys were 
to follow without delay. 

“ Come on,” Zenas cried sharply, he having moored 
the Hampton and scrambled ashore almost on the 
heels of his passengers. “ I’m allowin’ that all hands 
of us will be needed.” 

“ What can we do ? When father and Mr. Saw- 
telle see the wreck they won’t be in such a hurry, be- 
cause it will only be possible to stand idle and look at 
the poor creatures.” 

‘‘ Mr. Sawtelle don’t count on doin’ anythin’ of the 
kind, an’ if I’m not way out of my reckonin’ he’ll add 
to the wreck rather than take from it.” 

“What do you mean?” Ned asked breathlessly, 
for Zenas was forcing him and his cousin to the 
swiftest pace that could be maintained against the 
wind, thus rendering conversation difficult. 

“ It seems that he had a mighty good idee of the 


72 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


situation up yonder before I’d told the story, an’ his 
little trick was all worked out in his mind. He’s al- 
lowin’ to sail over the wreck in the Smuggler, takin’ 
the chances of pickin’ off some of the people in 
our life-boats — that is, providin’ they’ve got sense 
an’ strength enough to move lively when we get 
there.” 

‘‘No one knows but that the airship herself is 
wrecked! ” 

“ That’s what I told him ; but he says it should be 
possible to so patch her up within an hour that she can 
make the short trip.” 

“ There isn’t an airship, or a sailing craft, for that 
matter, that can stand up against this wind.” 

“ I said exactly the same words, lad, an’ he allowed 
that the Smuggler might be able to do it if we could 
get her started.” 

“ But suppose he succeeds in sailing across the 
schooner, and some of the people succeed in getting 
into our small boats, — what then ? How can we make 
a landing in this gale ? ” 

“ He claims that it is good-bye Smuggler on this 
one trip ; allows that he can’t bring her to the ground 
agin except by smashin’ the whole contraption. That 
he counts on doin’, by rippin’ the balloon open as 
soon’s he’s got some of the people, and lettin’ her come 
slam bang against the hangar, wreckin’ the whole 
bloomin’ lay-out. If he gets anybody off the first try, 
so much has been gained, an’ if the plan is a failure 
at the go, it can’t be tried agin, because there won’t 
be much of any Smuggler left.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


73 

‘‘ And he’s willing to wreck that which has cost so 
much time and money ? ” 

“ He allows that both will be well spent if he don’t 
rescue more than one person.” 

As the boys and Zenas soon learned, Mr. Sawtelle 
had not spent his time viewing the wreck; but had 
gojie directly to the hangar, and there they joined 
him as he was giving certain directions to the en- 
gineer and the assistants. 

‘‘ The craft doesn’t appear to have been injured 
seriously, although it has been knocked against the 
roof and sides of the hangar roughly,” the owner of 
the Nera was saying to his partner when the lads ar- 
rived. ‘‘ It is more than probable that the fabric of 
the balloon has been chafed dangerously; but because 
it still holds the gas, I am believing that we can count 
on its doing service a short time longer. Ten minutes 
at the most will be all that’s needed, if we can get her 
out of the hangar.” 

Surely that, as Paul believed, was the one vexing 
question. The entrance to the building faced ex- 
actly into the teeth of the wind, and it was yet blow- 
ing with unabated fury. Although Master Simpson 
had not studied the scientific principles of aeronautics, 
he knew that the greatest difficulty in getting under 
way during such a violent gale, would be in keeping 
the airship somewhere near on what sailors would call 
“ an even keel.” The wind would naturally strike the 
bow of the craft first as she came from the hangar, 
and must necessarily force the ship -upward, perhaps 
to the point of capsizing her endwise. All must have 


74 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


been taken into consideration by Mr. Sawtelle, for 
after making certain the workmen were proceeding 
according to instructions, he said in a low tone, but 
yet sufficiently loud for the boys to hear : 

I am free to admit that all the chances are against 
our making a success of the venture; but I am not 
counting to rise so high that a fall can be serious ; the 
only danger is in getting entangled with the wreckage 
when we come down, or crash into the hangar as I 
count on doing in order to bring us to a stand- 
still.” 

At this point the owner of the N era went out on the 
hill to view the wreck in order to get an idea of the 
course to be steered in case the Smuggler was got 
under way, and the boys and Zenas were left to their 
own devices, for there was nothing they could do to- 
ward aiding in repairing the airship. 

“ Pve heard of crazy ventures in my time, but 
this lays way over them all,” Master Cushing said 
musingly. “ It is bad enough to go up with such a 
craft as the Smuggler in fair weather ; but to do it in 
the teeth of a livin’ gale is what I call a good bit 
more’n reckless.” 

It isn’t likely that Mr. Sawtelle will insist on your 
going, more especially when he knows how you feel 
about it,” Ned suggested, and Zenas cried angrily : 

Do you allow that I’m sich a white-livered chicken 
as to stay here idle when there’s a chance of bein’ 
able to help those poor fellows? I’d go in the Smug- 
gler if I knew all hands of us would be killed; but all 
the same I shall be scared blue, an’ won’t dare to 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


75 

breathe from the time we start till I am smashed to 
a jelly on the rocks of Swallow-tailed Cove.’^ 

Perhaps Mr. Sawtelle won’t want you aboard.” 

‘‘ He’ll have to take me all the same. I won’t have 
it said that I didn’t do as much as the next man to 
help them as are facin’ death, no matter what the 
chances against us may be.” 

By this time the owner of the Nera, having fixed 
in his mind the position of the wreck, returned to 
the hangar and set about assisting the workmen, out- 
lining his plan as he did so. 

‘‘ We’re to take the chances of forcing the Smug- 
gler out of this building by aid of the propeller, and 
if we come to grief against the roof, as is more than 
possible, then must the attempt be given over. If 
there are any among you who are afraid to make the 
venture, I want you to say so now, for the enterprise 
is so dangerous that I would not urge that which might 
persuade a man against his better judgment.” 

“ We’re willin’ to take our chances with you, sir,” 
the engineer of the yacht replied. “ I’m thinkin’, 
though, that we sha’n’t get very far on our way be- 
cause this ’ere craft will be up-ended before her bow 
gets well past the door, an’ then it’ll be a case of lookin’ 
out for splinters, for they’ll fly mighty lively.” 

“ In event of such a wreck each man must look to 
his own safety without heed to the ship. Strive to 
jump clear of the wreck, for we shall not be at such 
a height but that it can be done without much fear 
of breaking a limb,” Mr. Sawtelle replied in a matter- 
of-fact tone as if speaking of some ordinary venture. 


76 AIRSHIP CRUISING 

instead of the most dangerous attempt that can well 
be imagined. 

How are you countin’ to get the people off, if so 
be the ship can be made to sail over their heads in 
this howlin’ gale? ” 

“ We’ll have one man in the after life-boat — Zenas, 
if he is willing to take the chances. He shall do his 
best as we approach, and I am counting on slowing 
down to the lowest practicable speed, to let the people 
know what is to be done. I have little hope of saving 
all, for there appear to be five or six; but if we can 
rescue a single person we shall be well paid. The man 
in the boat is to aid any who may have wit enough to 
cling to the craft as we pass over, in climbing aboard. 
More than that I cannot say, for we must trust largely 
to the chapter of accidents in this matter, after having 
exercised our best judgment.” 

Just at this moment Captain Tobi and Daniel Downs 
came up, they having heard from Mr. Simpson what 
it was the owner of the Nera proposed to do, and the 
fat sailor was loud in his protests against any such 
reckless venture. 

‘‘ A man of your age ought’er have better sense than 
to think of runnin’ out in a crow-chaser while the gale 
is so heavy ! ” he cried as if in a rage. “ It strikes me 
there’s trouble enough on this ’ere island without you 
doin’ your best to kill three or four men.” 

“ Would you have me stand still and suck my 
thumbs. Captain Tobi, while those poor wretches are 
drowning? ” 

“ Better that than drown with ’em, or be smashed 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


77 

on the rocks when there ain’t the least little chance 
you can pull this thing through.” 

“If it was a case of handling a sailing ship, Cap- 
tain Tobi, I would readily allow that you knew better 
than I what could be done; but you must admit that I 
have had some experience in air navigation, and I tell 
you plainly that if we can get the Smuggler outside 
this building there’s a chance of saving human life, 
that is, if those on board the wreck can be made to 
understand our purpose.” 

“That’s jest it! There you are!” Captain Tobi 
screamed. “ The crew of that schooner, having been 
under water, as you might say, since last night, won’t 
have more’n half their wits about ’em, an’ are likely 
to be scared when they see the crow-chaser — if you 
get far enough to show yourself — instead of thinkin’ 
she may be able to snake ’em off. Give over what even 
a fool would balk at try in’ ! ” 

To this appeal Mr. Sawtelle gave no heed. He con- 
tinued to work with his men feverishly, understanding 
that every moment was precious if success was to 
crown his efforts, and even while Daniel Downs was 
making ready to add his arguments against the ven- 
ture to those advanced by Captain Tobi, one of the 
machinists, gathering up his tools from the “ bridge,” 
announced : 

“ She’s as near ready as we can make her, sir. If 
it was a case of try in’ to keep her in the air any length 
of time I’d say we needed to patch the liftin’ rudder; 
but since the wind is likely to do that with greater 
force than may be pleasant, an’ you’re only askin’ that 


78 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


she shall hold in trim ten minutes, there’s no reason 
why you shouldn’t try to get under way.” 

The engineer of the yacht was already at the motor; 
the machinists stepped here or there as if seeking a 
station that offered the greatest chance for safety, and 
Mr. Sawtelle prepared to ascend by the short rope 
ladder which hung over the rail, when Zenas asked, 
almost eagerly, as if his one desire in life was to share 
the danger: 

Where am I to go, sir ? ” 

In the after boat, as I have said. You will strive 
to catch hold of some person as we pass, and also 
stand by to lend a hand to any who may have sufficient 
sense to clutch the rigging. It will be a case of work- 
ing for dear life during the few seconds we may be 
able to hover over the wreck, and then, without care 
as to those who may have been taken aboard, you’re 
to look after yourself when we strike the ground or 
the hangar, for I shall rip the envelope of the balloon 
from top to bottom.” 

'' What are we to do? ” Paul asked when Mr. Saw- 
telle had turned as if to ascend, and the owner of the 
yacht stopped suddenly to face the lads as he asked 
sternly : 

Have you any idea that I shall allow you boys to 
take part in this work ? ” 

It is not fair that we should be left behind when 
even Zenas is given a chance to help those poor 
people.” 

“You are to stay where you are,” was the em- 
phatic reply. “All the force that can be mustered 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


79 


will be needed here to help us when we come down, 
for then we shall be wanting assistance even as those 
on the wreck are wanting it.” 

‘‘Don’t make a fool of yourself, lad!” Captain 
Tobi bellowed as he seized Paul by the coat collar, 
much as if expecting that the lad would make an at- 
tempt to go aboard the airship regardless of what 
Mr. Sawtelle had said. “ You’ll stay here on a firm 
footin’, if I can do anythin’ toward it, instead of 
riskin’ your neck in the air when the wind is blowin’ 
fit to take the hide off a tarred monkey ! ” 

“ Stand by there to cast off the pulley ropes, and 
at the same time do all you can toward pulling her in 
the direction of the door,” Mr. Sawtelle cried as he 
took his station at the steering wheel. “ Captain 
Tobi, you and the two boys are to work on that side, 
while Mr. Simpson with Daniel Downs and his sons 
are to stand opposite. Don’t get nervous. Let go 
steadily and haul forward smoothly. We’re depend- 
ing on you people ashore to get us out through the 
door.” 

“If we did our duty we’d put in the big licks to 
wreck this ’ere crow-chaser before she was outside,” 
the old sailor muttered as he obeyed orders, and Paul 
noted that the captain did his best to follow instruc- 
tions. 

Mr. Sawtelle had already seen to it that the Smug- 
gler was properly ballasted, and when the ropes which 
held her to the ground were let go she remained at 
about the same height as before, thanks to the un- 
usually heavy cargo of sand in bags. Then came the 


8o 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


task of pulling her through the door against the strong 
wind, that was now coming in spiteful gusts. This 
last would have been impossible owing to the enormous 
surface of the balloon which was opposed to the gale, 
had it not been for the propeller. 

No sooner was the Smuggler released from her 
moorings than the engineer started the motor at full 
speed, an act which would have been considered in 
the highest degree dangerous under ordinary circum- 
stances; but now seemed most fitting in view of the 
greater perils which awaited those who would save 
life at risk of their own. 

The huge blades of the screw revolved rapidly, the 
ship moved inch by inch until the wind lulled for an 
instant, when she swept out of the hangar with a rush, 
carrying away the starboard rail of the car against 
the side of the building to the discomfiture of the 
helmsman, who was very nearly swept from his feet. 

As the Smuggler drove into the gale, her bow up- 
lifted by the pressure of the wind to a dangerous de- 
gree, the boys caught a single glimpse of Zenas 
crouching in the after life-boat with his head over the 
rail that he might hail those on the wreck at the 
earliest possible moment, his face white with alarm. 
There was no question but that Master Cushing would 
do all within his power for those in peril, and equally 
certain was it that he was in deadly fear, which last 
proved beyond a doubt that he had in him the stuff of 
which heroes are made, else had he thrown himself 
out at the final moment. 

Paul clutched Ned’s hand so tightly that the circu- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


8i 


lation of blood was checked, unconscious of what he 
did, as he watched, in company with all those who had 
been left behind, the efforts of the helmsman to keep 
the unwieldy craft on the desired course. The wind 
uplifted the bow higher and higher, forcing the craft 
at a greater altitude than Mr. Sawtelle intended to 
gain, and while one might have counted twenty it 
seemed absolutely certain the ship would be thrown 
backward. 

Then the watchers could see that slowly the helms- 
man was gaining something like control of the aerial 
craft. She was brought around in a curve, when the 
wind took her two or three points on the port bow, 
and during a full minute it appeared as if she would 
be heading toward the south, flying in the teeth of the 
gale. 

It was as if Paul could feel the efforts of the pro- 
peller to force her on the true course; she wavered as 
does a bird uncertain of its flight, fell off slightly, and 
once more came into the teeth of the wind as Captain 
Tobi shouted triumphantly: 

He’s got her well in hand now, which is somethin’ 
I’d sworn couldn’t be done! There’s no use talkin’, 
the ship can fly, no matter what sich old women as 
Daniel Downs may say agin it 1 ” 

To Paul and Ned it seemed that now the most 
serious obstacles in the flight, meaning the ability to 
leave the hangar and prevent the ship from being 
up-ended, had been surmounted, the work of life sav- 
ing might be successfully accomplished ; but no sooner 
had the Smuggler been straightened out on her course 


82 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


into the very teeth of the wind, when there came a 
question as to whether she could make headway 
against it. 

At short intervals, as the gale subsided for an in- 
stant, it looked as if she darted ahead, and then as the 
wind came in stronger gusts, there could be no ques- 
tion but that she was actually driven backward. The 
boys no longer gave heed to the perils which lurked 
in the ether for the aerial voyagers; but only ques- 
tioned whether the Smuggler had in her motors suf- 
ficient power to drive her against the storm to where 
it might be possible to save the lives of those aboard 
the wrecked schooner. 


CHAPTER V 


AMATEUR WRECKERS 

It seemed to Paul as he watched with bated breath 
the efforts of the helmsman to force the Smuggler 
ahead against the blast, that he was witnessing a 
veritable battle in the air with the elements fighting to 
destroy that wretched group of human beings on the 
wrecked schooner, and the aerial craft endeavoring 
to save them. 

Twice, three times was the Smuggler forced back- 
ward until it seemed certain she would be up-ended; 
then came a momentary lull in the storm when she 
darted ahead swiftly and at the same time the wind 
brought to the ears of the anxious watchers a warn- 
ing cry from Mr. Sawtelle : 

‘‘Now's your chance, Zenas! Time is precious!" 

That which followed was like flashes of light in 
swiftness. Paul and Ned could see that Master Cush- 
ing was leaning far out over the side of the life-boat, 
apparently shouting, and almost immediately after, 
as the Smuggler swept down upon the wreck, there 
was a quick movement amid the group on the 
schooner’s bow. Then it was as if something was 
thrown at Zenas and at the same time a human figure 
leaped upward toward the airship. 

“ Hurrah I He’s got one I ’’ Ned cried triumphantly 
as he saw a figure clinging to the life-boat, and the 
83 


84 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


words were no more than uttered when a cry of horror 
burst from the lips of the spectators. 

“ The ship can’t rise with so much additional weight. 
She’s bound to pitch into the surf ! ” Mr. Simpson 
cried, and it was possible to see that the aerial craft 
was sinking lower and lower until both life-boats were 
being dragged across the tops of the angry waves. 

Then came a moment of most painful suspense, 
when those on the shore saw the stern of the Smuggler 
depressed gradually, while her bow was being slowly 
lifted, and it seemed almost certain that she must be 
up-ended into the boiling, seething water, when the 
death of all on board must speedily follow, for no 
help could be given. 

It was when Paul and Ned were about to turn their 
heads to shut out from view the fatal plunge which 
it seemed could not long be delayed, that from the 
car were flung three or four apparently heavy ob- 
jects, and on the instant the Smuggler began to rise, 
her bow swinging easterly before the gale. 

Then a prolonged shout of joy and relief went up 
from the anxious ones ashore. Captain Tobi’s tem- 
pestuous notes rising high above the others, for all 
understood that the Smuggler had been lightened to 
the extent of the additional weight taken from the 
wreck, by throwing overboard bags of ballast, and 
now the vital question was as to whether she could be 
brought to the ground without mortal injury to her 
crew. 

Zenas got one of them,” Ned shouted, and Paul 
replied : 



SOMETHING WAS THROWN AT ZENAS 



FROM SILVER FOX FARM 85 

“ That’s even better than I believe Mr. Sawtelle 
dared to hope. If the Smuggler can get back she will 
have accomplished a big thing, although there are yet 
so many on the wreck who must drown.” 

Matters were moving swiftly by this time. The 
airship had been allowed to swing to the eastward 
until she felt the full force of the gale on her port 
bow, when around she came with the swiftness of 
light, and was heading for the hangar even before 
the spectators realized that she had turned. 

Like some gigantic monster of the air she swooped 
down toward the huge structure which was to check 
the mad flight, and then it was as if the envelope 
of the balloon suddenly collapsed. The fabric was 
whipped and torn by the wind in addition to the work 
done by the ripping valve, for Mr. Sawtelle had rent 
the bag from top to bottom. 

Down, down the Smuggler settled, yet borne 
swiftly southward, for she presented a large surface 
to the gale even after the envelope had been destroyed, 
and then came a crash that could be heard half the 
length of the island even above the howling of the 
storm. 

Broadside on the ship which had been fashioned 
with so much care and at such a great expenditure of 
money, struck the hangar, bringing down the timbers 
as if they had been so many straws, the crew leaping 
over the side of the car a second before the impact. 

Now came the moment when the spectators could 
aid in the work of life saving, and instinctively every 
man and boy ran forward to grapple with the wreck- 


86 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


age of silk, rubber and metal which was being thrashed 
by the wind against the splintered timbers until it 
was seemingly a shapeless mass. 

Paul and Ned thought only of the life-boat in which 
were Zenas and the person he had saved, and as they 
ran, a sickening fear almost overcame them, for the 
frail craft was bottom upward, half enveloped in the 
fabric of the balloon, while no token of life came 
from it. 

With a strength born of fear and despair, Paul 
gripped one rail, raising it two feet or more from the 
ground despite the heavy weight upon it, and a great 
wave of joy almost overpowered him as he heard 
Zenas cry : 

“ We're all right in here. What about the 
others ? " 

I haven’t had time to see. Why don’t you crawl 
out ? ” and Paul made desperate efforts to raise the 
boat yet higher. 

‘‘ Take this baby, an’ then I’ll be able to help the 
mother. She’s mighty near the same as a dead 
woman.” 

‘‘ The baby ! ” Ned, who had heard the words, re- 
peated in astonishment. “Has Zenas gone crazy?” 

Before Paul could reply something rolled in a 
blanket was thrust forth from under the upturned 
boat, and as he laid hold of it Paul realized that be- 
neath the many wrappings was something alive. 

“ It must be a baby as he said ; but where did he 
get it ? ” 

“If it’s alive it should be carried to Mrs. Downs 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


87 

as soon as possible,” Ned cried excitedly. Go on 
with it, and Fll pull Zenas out. I thought it was a 
grown person he had saved, and can’t make out where 
he got that,” the lad added half to himself as Paul 
started at full speed towards the Downs home. 

‘‘ Can’t you help this poor woman out ? ” Zenas cried 
in muffled tones. She’s had all the hard time that’s 
needed, without bein’ called on to stay in this stiflin’ 
place.” 

Too thoroughly bewildered to be really aware of 
what he did, Ned braced his back under the rail of the 
boat that he might have free use of his hands. At the 
same moment Master Cushing pushed toward him 
what appeared to be the lifeless form of a woman, on 
her face the pallor of death, and her garments sodden 
with water. 

As Ned pulled the helpless figure by the shoulders 
Zenas pushed from behind until the unconscious wo- 
man was in the open air, when Master Cushing, ap- 
parently none the worse for his perilous venture, fol- 
' lowed her, saying hurriedly as he emerged to view: 

‘‘ She’s needin’ dry clothes an’ plenty of heat, an’ 
there ain’t any time to be wasted. Here, Sam Downs, 
you and Ernest are to lay hold with me while we carry 
this poor creature to your mother.” 

The Downs boys were standing idly by the wreck 
literally bewildered by what they had seen, and like 
lads in a dream they obeyed the command of Zenas, 
Paul hastening away to do what he might for the 
crew of the Smuggler. 

No assistance was needed in this quarter. At the 


88 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


moment Mr. Sawtelle opened the ripping valve he 
shouted for his companions to be ready to leap for 
life, and all the human freight the Smuggler carried 
Zenas and those he had saved were the only ones to- 
be entangled in the wreckage. 

When Paul would have turned his attention to pull- 
ing the helpless ones from that mass of fabric and 
metal, he found every member of the crew, including 
Mr. Sawtelle, working like beavers to save what they 
might of the airship. 

While the gale raged, all that could be done in the 
way of caring for the wreck of the Smuggler, was to 
get the frame- work into the hangar where it would 
not serve as the sport of the wind, and in such work 
Captain Tobi did the work of two men despite his 
unwieldy form. 

He and Daniel Downs worked under the direction 
of the owner of the Nera as they had not worked for 
many a long day, and in what seemed to Paul like an 
incredibly short time all the wreckage had been housed 
and sheltered, so far as possible, from the weather. 

Not until this had been done did Mr. Sawtelle ap- 
parently give thought to the lives he had saved, and 
he asked sharply, speaking to no one in particular: 

‘‘ What was in the bundle a woman threw into the 
life-boat before getting hold of the rail? I had too 
much on my mind just then to give any particular 
heed as to what was going on beneath me, except that 
I saw the package thrown aboard, and wondered who 
would try to save property rather than life.” 

‘‘ There was a baby in the bundle ; Paul has carried 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 89 

it to Mrs. Downs’ home,” Ned replied, and Mr. Saw- 
telle looked at him in bewilderment. 

“ A baby ! Then we’ve saved a child and its 
mother! There must be heroes aboard the wreck to 
hang back knowing death was certain, in order that 
the woman might have the first chance. Poor fel- 
lows, and we can do no more to aid them I ” 

You came near sacrificing your own life, and the 
lives of all on the ship, which should be enough of 
glory for one day,” Mr. Simpson replied gravely. 
‘‘ There’s just a chance the men yonder can keep a 
grip on this world until the gale subsides, when we 
may contrive to get them ashore.” 

I’m goin’ to spend my time tryin’ to get a line to 
’em!” Captain Tobi cried suddenly, excited to re- 
newed efforts by the success of Mr. Sawtelle’s ven- 
ture. Daniel, you shall lend a hand, an’ if that 
worthless Zenas Cushin’ shows his nose ’round here 
we’ll make him do somethin’ toward earnin’ his salt.” 

Ned did not linger near the hangar; he was eager 
to see those who had been saved, and to hear from 
Master Cushing’s lips the story of what was done 
during those few seconds when the Smuggler was 
poised over the wreck, therefore he went with all 
speed to Daniel Downs’ home, there meeting Zenas 
and the Downs boys at the door. 

‘‘ You can’t go in,” Master Cushing said sharply 
when Ned would have opened the door. “ Mrs. Downs 
drove all of us except Paul out of the house, an’ says 
we mustn’t loaf ’round here ’cause the woman an’ the 
baby are needin’ to go to sleep.” 


90 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Didn't any of the men try to get aboard the life- 
boat?” Ned asked curiously as he and Zenas made 
their way with difficulty toward the “ hotel,” while 
Sam and Ernest took refuge from the gale in their 
father’s wood-shed, where they stood stupidly like 
chickens surprised by a thunder storm. 

“ One of ’em tossed the baby aboard, an’ I shouted 
for him to lay hold of the rail ; but he shook his head 
an’ stepped back so’s the woman could have a chance 
to jump, ’cause we didn’t drop within four feet of the 
schooner’s deck. I had quite a tussle to drag her in- 
board, for the Smuggler was slattin’ ’round like mad; 
but she hung on in good shape, an’ by the time I had 
her safe hi the boat we were cornin’ to grief near the 
hangar. Anybody hurt ? ” 

‘‘ So far as I could see not a member of the crew 
has been so much as scratched, but it seems almost 
impossible you could have gone out in this gale, and 
come back with the Smuggler a total wreck, without 
injuring a single person.” 

“ It’s a clear case of luck,” Master Cushing said 
as, having gained the shelter of the hotel,” he wrung 
the water from his clothing. “ When we started I 
made certain it was sure death for all hands.” 

“ But you were willing to go all the same.” 

“ I ain’t so certain ’bout bein’ willin’ ; but somebody 
had to go, an’ it was up to me to do what was ordered. 
Anyway, I’m hopin’ the same kind of a job won’t come 
my way agin very soon.” 

What were you thinking of when the Smuggler 
was fighting against the wind?” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


91 


‘‘ There wasn't much time to do a great deal of 
thinkin'," Zenas replied grimly, “ an’ I can’t rightly 
say what was in my mind, except that I knew it would 
be a case of quick work if we came anywhere near 
the wreck, though I counted that we’d never reach 
her.” 

“ How many men are on the schooner? ” 

“ Of course I couldn’t count ’em, seein’s we were 
makin’ mighty quick time; but I’d say there were 
four near the woman, an’ two looked as if they might 
be dead.” 

At this moment the owners of the island came into 
the building, and as he gripped Master Cushing by 
the hand Mr. Sawtelle said fervently: 

You come very near being a hero, Zenas. When 
a man goes into danger knowing all the perils, and is 
afraid, yet holds to what he believes to be his duty, 
he may well be called brave.” 

Master Cushing’s face flushed with pleasure at such 
praise, and he found it impossible to make any reply, 
whereupon the owner of the Neva continued in a 
business-like tone: 

I don’t fancy it will be possible for us to board the 
Neva until the storm subsides, and if Mrs. Downs has 
a woman and a baby, both nearly dead no doubt, to 
look after, we can’t expect she will be able to provide 
us with food, therefore it’s a case of going hungry 
quite a while.” 

‘‘Where is Cap’in Tobi?” Zenas asked suddenly 
as if a happy thought had come to him. 

“ He and Daniel Downs are trying to make an 


92 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


apology for a breeches buoy, in the hope of saving 
the men on the schooner; but I have little hope any- 
thing of the kind can be done while the storm con- 
tinues.” 

“ Fm wonderin’ what became of his tender,” Zenas 
continued as if thinking aloud. ‘‘ His butter tub went 
ashore kind’er easy, an’ there was a dory astern of 
her last night.” 

‘‘ More than likely it has been stove on the rocks,” 
Mr. Sawtelle replied as if not particularly interested 
in the matter, and Master Cushing added hopefully: 

‘‘ It may be that she hasn’t been stove so badly that 
we couldn’t patch her up, an’ with a boat on that 
shore it wouldn’t be very much of a trick to board 
the Nera, for her hull will serve as a lee.” 

See what can be done, Zenas, and if you succeed 
I will see to it that the cook takes especial pains to 
prepare for you a dinner that shall be a regular 
feast.” 

“ I’m not thinkin’ so much about what can be had 
to eat, as about dry clothes. When I left the yacht it 
wasn’t what you might call convenient to put on oil- 
skins. I’m so wet now that a few more gallons of 
water won’t make any difference, so I’ll have a look 
around for Cap’in Tobi’s dory.” 

Then Zenas left the building, the boys following 
at his heels, for they also were of his opinion regard- 
ing an additional wetting, and the three made all 
haste to gain the southerly shore of the island, for 
sharp exercise was what was needed to prevent them 
from being chilled to the bone. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


93 

‘‘ It’s growin’ cold, an’ Fm lookin’ for snow before 
this ’ere storm clears away,” Zenas said as he walked 
at a rapid pace, his teeth chattering like a pair of 
castanets. If that old pirate of ours don’t get a 
rope to the wreck pretty soon, the poor fellows there 
will freeze before havin’ a chance to drown.” 

Paul and Ned were not inclined to speculate upon 
such a possibility. There had been so much of hor- 
ror in the vicinity of Barren Island since the day 
dawned that they could not well endure dwelling upon 
the details, and because it was impossible to lend aid 
to those on the wreck, both lads strove to prevent 
their thoughts from dwelling upon the probabilities. 

Zenas and the boys found to their surprise that 
Captain Tobi’s schooner had suffered very little dam- 
age, save as to her rigging, when she fouled the 
yacht. She had been driven ashore broadside on, 
striking the sand rather than any portion of the reef, 
and had her owner tried to beach her in the most con- 
venient position, he could not have done a better job. 

There, that’s what you call luck agin,” Master 
Cushing said when the three were where a clear view 
of the schooner could be had. “ Six feet more west- 
erly, or five yards further toward the east, an’ she’d 
be ground to pieces on the rocks; but as it is the old 
craft has picked out the one best spot on the shore, 
where she can lay as snug as a bug in a rug till her 
owner gets ready to launch her. I wonder where the 
crew have hid themselves? ” 

As if in answer to this question a man’s head ap- 
peared from the after companion way, and since the 


94 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


vessel was on her beam ends he must have hauled him- 
self up by his hands in order to look out, or made a 
platform of the cabin furniture. 

“ Wa’al, you seem to be takin’ it kind’er comfor- 
table,” Zenas cried laughingly. Don’t take the 
trouble to come ashore, eh?” 

Why should we ? The hull is tight ; the only 
water that came aboard was over the rail, an’ we’re 
earnin’ our wages by keepin’ ship, an’ stayin’ out of 
the wet at the same time.” 

‘‘ Where’s your dory ? ” 

“ We haven’t taken the trouble to find out; she may 
be stove, or high an’ dry for all we care.” 

Wa’al, I reckon you can crawl back into your 
hole, for you don’t seem to be needin’ anythin’,” and 
Zenas began to search for the small boat, understand- 
ing full well of what value a sea- worthy tender would 
be to all the dwellers on the island at that particular 
time. 

Perhaps no member of the party was more sur- 
prised than Master Cushing himself when, after less 
than five minutes of searching, he found the schooner’s 
dory half imbedded in the sand under her bow. 

In order to float the craft it was necessary to dig 
out the sand with their hands, for neither member of 
the party was willing to spend precious time running 
up to Daniel Downs’s home for a shovel, and when 
half an hour or more had been spent in the work, 
Zenas said to Paul : 

'' You may as well go to the hotel and tell your 
father an’ Mr. Sawtelle that I’ll be ready to set ’em 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


95 


aboard the yacht by the time they can get here. This 
dory hasn’t been hurt a little bit ; I’m allowin’ she’s in 
as good shape, barrin’ the sand an’ water, as she was 
last night, an’ with her at hand we can soon have 
things here in the harbor to suit us.” 

Paul did as he was bidden, and, true to his promise. 
Master Cushing was ready to set them aboard the 
Nera as soon as the owners of the island had arrived. 
It was not a simple task to propel the dory, for as oars 
Zenas had only strips of board which he had induced 
the crew on the schooner to send up from below, and 
although the hull of the yacht served in a certain de- 
gree as a breakwater, the surf ran so high that an 
ordinary tender would have been swamped. 

By dint of hard work and an expenditure of con- 
siderable time the two gentlemen, with Paul and Ned, 
and, as a matter of course. Master Cushing, were on 
board the Nera gazing at the evidences of destruction 
forward where the bow of Captain Tobi’s schooner 
had splintered and torn away all the upper works until 
a landsman would have said that she was a total wreck. 

“ She can be put into as good shape as ever with a 
week’s work,” the owner said after an inspection of 
the injuries, and we have reason to be thankful 
that we are to get out of the muddle so easily. When 
that vessel came down on us last night, I felt positive 
this craft would be sent to the bottom. We’ll get on 
dry clothing, have breakfast, and then go ashore again, 
although I fear we can give no aid to the poor wretches 
at Swallow-tailed Cove.” 

As Mr. Sawtelle had said so they did, and an hour 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


96 

later, all wearing oil-skins, the little company climbed 
the hill to Mr. Downs’s home, where the owner of the 
Nera instructed Sam, who was yet idling in the wood- 
shed, to ask that his mother come to the door. 

The poor thing dropped off to sleep almost as soon 
as I got her into bed,” Mrs. Downs said in reply to 
Mr. Sawtelle’s question. “ She was all wore out, hav- 
in’ good reason to be, an’ the baby, bless his dear little 
heart, is as chipper as a sparrow. It does beat all how 
much those little things can stand ” 

The owners of the island did not wait to hear the 
good woman’s speculations as to the physical endurance 
of a baby; but, having learned that the mother was 
resting even more comfortably than might have been 
expected, they continued on up the hill, past the wire- 
less station, to where could be had a view of the 
wreck. 

There was no change in the schooner or her sur- 
roundings. The surf yet ran high, making a clean 
breach over the hulk, and the black mass in the bow 
which the spectators knew to be a group of human 
beings, alive or dead, gave no token of consciousness. 

Captain Tobi and Daniel Downs had not been idle, 
and even though he was averse to giving praise to 
the old pirate,” Zenas Cushing was forced to ad- 
mit that no little progress was being made toward the 
rescue. On a framework hastily constructed out of 
the fragments of the hangar, the old sailor had fas- 
tened a pulley through which ran the inch-rope Zenas 
had used in working the Hampton boat toward the 
yacht. To one end of this he had attached a six-foot 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


97 


length of joist, with a board nailed to it to serve as an 
apology for a sail, and when the owners of the island 
appeared in view he was making the first attempt to 
pay out the timber in such a manner that it would be 
carried by the wind and waves to the wreck. 

‘‘ I declare that old pirate has cooked up somethin’ 
that may work ! ” Zenas cried in a tone of approba- 
tion as he watched Captain Tobi’s efforts to steer his 
makeshift for a buoy. “If them aboard the wreck 
have life enough left to help themselves, there’s a 
chance we may haul some of ’em ashore.” 

Then Master Cushing ran swiftly along the edge of 
the cove, intent only on doing what he might to aid 
Captain Tobi ; but when he arrived at the scene of the 
wrecking operations, the old sailor, the water pouring 
from every angle of his face and clothing, asked 
angrily : 

“ Wa’al, what is it now, Zenas Cushin’ ? You’re 
bound to have a finger in every pie, of course ; but I’m 
tellin’ you straight that you won’t be allowed to med- 
dle with my cookin’.” 

“ I ain’t countin’ on meddlin’, you touchy old porcu- 
pine. It struck me, seein’s how that’s tolerable hard 
work, that I might lend a hand, for I’m allowin’ you’ll 
pull that ’ere timber in an’ let it out more’n once be- 
fore you contrive to have it strike jest where you’re 
aimin’.” 

“ What business is it of yours how many times I 
pull in or pay out? The job won’t be done any the 
quicker for your bein’ here.” 

“ Now, now, Cap’in Tobi, Zenas means well, an’ 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


98 

there’s no reason why you should jump at him so hard. 
He came up here to lend a hand, an’ ’cordin’ to the 
looks of things we’ll need a little help, ’specially if 
one of them poor creeters has life enough left to tie 
the rope around his body, ’cause it won’t be any child’s 
play to haul a full-sized man through the water with 
the surf so high.” 

Hold your tongue, Daniel,” was the angry reply. 

I’m workin’ this ’ere contrivance, an’ count on doin’ 
it without any help from sich as Zenas Cushin’.” 

Understanding that he was delaying the attempted 
rescue by trying to be of assistance, Master Cushing 
retraced his steps to where the machinists, the engi- 
neer, the owners of the island and Paul and Ned were 
standing under the partial shelter of the wireless sta- 
tion. 

I’m wonderin’ why this ’ere wireless business 
ain’t bein’ used,” he said as he joined the shivering 
company. “ It strikes me that mighty near everythin’ 
on this island is wrecked, an’ if we could have a tug 
here for four an’ twenty hours after the storm clears 
away, providin’ snow don’t come on the tail of it, we’d 
be able to do quite a bit toward straightenin’ matters.” 

“ It wouldn’t be possible to get a tug to put out in 
this gale,” Mr. Sawtelle said as if he did not deem 
the suggestion of great importance, and Master Cush- 
ing replied quietly: 

I don’t reckon we could ; but if it was known that 
you wanted to hire one, a big lot of time would be 
saved by havin’ the craft ready to start as soon as the 
weather clears.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


99 


I believe you are right, Zenas,” and now Mr. Saw- 
telle gave token of being interested in the proposition. 

Suppose you get at the instrument, lads, and find out 
if it is possible to make yourself heard while the wind 
is blowing as it does now.” 

This was enough to arouse Paul and Ned. Work- 
ing the wireless was something they could do, and 
activity was most welcome at such a time of suspense. 
Without waiting to hear what might be Mr. Saw- 
telle’s opinion in the premises, they entered the station 
and immediately began sending out calls for help. 

In the meantime Captain Tobi and Mr. Downs were 
doing their work to the best of their ability. The im- 
promptu buoy had failed again and again of reaching 
the wreck, and yet they persisted in their efforts, until, 
while Paul was working at the key in the vain at- 
tempt to attract the attention of the outer world, a 
great shout went up from the old sailor, and there 
could be no mistake as to his voice. 

They’ve got the joist aboard, and one of the men 
is makin’ the rope fast around his body ! ” Sam Downs 
cried, and this was sufficient to bring Paul and Ned 
out of the station. 

It was true that Captain Tobi had succeeded in his 
purpose, and even as the boys came into the open air 
it was possible to see the old sailor and Daniel Downs 
hauling in on the rope with feverish haste. On the 
bow of the wreck there had been at least one man who 
had life enough remaining to understand what must 
be done, and he fastened the rope around his body, 
directly under the arms, taking the chances of the 


lOO 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


death that might await him in the surf, rather than 
remain where the wind and the surf were shrieking 
hungrily for his life. 

During ten minutes or more those on the shore 
stood exposed to the full fury of the gale watching 
the efforts of the wreckers, and then it was seen that 
they pulled a body from out the surf; but a gesture 
of disappointment from Captain Tobi told that the man 
had yielded up his life in that wild turmoil of waters. 
Only a corpse, bruised and battered, had been taken 
from the hulk of the schooner after infinite patience 
and labor. 

Captain Tobi was not discouraged, however, and 
again he let drift the length of joist, while Mr. Simp- 
son and the engineer went out into the storm to give 
the last service that could be rendered to the lifeless 
body. 

Then the boys went back to the wireless station, 
sending calls for help without intermission, but failing 
to receive any reply. With the wind blowing as it 
was, neither they nor Mr. Sawtelle had much hope 
they could accomplish anything toward bringing as- 
sistance from the mainland, yet they continued at the 
instrument until it was possible to hear even above the 
howling of the wind, a triumphant shout from the old 
sailor. 

Once more had he succeeded in dragging a human 
life from the maelstrom of waters, and this time the 
rescued gained the shore with some little signs of con- 
sciousness remaining. Understanding as much from 
the signals of the wreckers, Mr. Simpson and Zenas 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


lOI 


hastened to the scene of Captain Tobi’s labors, to carry 
back to the Downs home a battered semblance of hu- 
manity that would require all Mrs. Downs’s efforts to 
coax back to life. 

Again the good woman reported that the mother 
and the child were resting quietly, and appeared ready 
to minister t6 the wants of this new applicant for 
charity, saying as the senseless form was laid on the 
only spare bed in the house: 

‘‘If you’ll send Sam and Ernest here I’m thinkin’ 
I’ll get along with this poor creature all right; but it 
doesn’t really seem as if he could live.” 

“ Do your best by him, Mrs. Downs, and we’ll hope 
he pulls through,” Mr. Simpson replied hurriedly, for 
just then could be heard a cry from the wireless sta- 
tion telling that the boys were in communication with 
the outside world. 

“ We’ve got an answer from the Government sta- 
tion at Portsmouth, and are wanting to know if we 
shall ask for a tug to be sent here as soon as possible? ” 
Paul cried as his father came into view. 

“ Tell them all that has happened, so that the wreck 
of the schooner yacht may be reported, and engage a 
tug for two or three days,” was the reply, after which 
Mr. Simpson rejoined his partner near the head of 
Swallow-tailed Cove. 

It was evident from what could be seen at this point 
that Captain Tobi’s labor was useless after the second 
man had been dragged from the wreck. Twice had 
the make-shift for a buoy been sent fairly down to the 
bow of the wreck; but those on board had given no 


102 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


heed to it, and the only reasonable explanation was 
that the unfortunate men had finally succumbed to the 
buffeting of the waves combined with the frost which 
was increasing each moment until ice formed wherever 
the water remained undisturbed. 

“ Our work here is finished, and we may as well go 
on board the yacht,” Mr. Simpson said after learning 
it was agreed that a tug from Portsmouth would put 
out as soon as the weather permitted. It is evident 
that there is no one alive on the wreck, and no good 
can come of our remaining here to watch Captain 
Tobi’s useless efforts.” 

Chilled to the bone as they were, and wet by the 
spray that was flung far inland, even into the wireless 
station, the boys were only too well pleased to seek the 
grateful shelter of the N era's cabin where they might, 
in a measure, put from their mind the dreadful hap- 
penings in Swallow-tailed Cove. Therefore, waiting 
only long enough to summon Zenas, they set off with 
Mr. Simpson, the latter’s partner following as soon as 
he learned what was contemplated. 

Not until they were aboard the yacht, enjoying the 
grateful warmth of the cabin, did any of the party 
venture to speak; even Zenas appeared to have been 
awed into silence; and then Mr. Sawtelle said with a 
long-drawn sigh : 

'‘We haven’t succeeded in saving all the lives that 
were in peril ; but at the same time we have made every 
effort within our power, regarding neither labor nor 
expense, and now I believe we may without reproach 
minister to our own comfort.” 


CHAPTER VI 


THE RESCUED 

Before night came, and when the tide was at its 
height, thus giving greater scope to the surf, the wreck 
of the schooner went to pieces, and with it the last 
hope of saving other lives, although it is extremely 
probable that those forms remaining in the bow were 
lifeless before the last vestige of the vessel had disap- 
peared. 

Late in the afternoon the storm lulled, and Zenas 
went ashore to learn how the rescued were getting 
on. Mrs. Downs reported that the baby boy was play- 
ing in the kitchen ; but his mother was not sufficiently 
recovered to give a connected account of the ship- 
wreck. The man yet remained in a state of semi- 
consciousness, and it was feared that he might have 
been injured internally. Sam and Ernest had been 
banished from the house to take shelter in the “ hotel,’’ 
and Daniel was installed as assistant nurse and maid 
of all work. 

“ That old pirate of a Cap’in Tobi is loafin’ ’round 
the kitchen,” Master Cushing added as if in such fact 
he found cause for personal grievance. “ He claims 
that he’s about the same as played out on account of 
what he did while tryin’ to haul folks off the wreck; 
but ’cordin’ to my idee that’s only an excuse for hang- 
in’ on at Daniel’s house.” 


103 


104 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


There is no question but that he worked hard, and 
it is only reasonable to believe that a man of his age 
would be weary after so much unusual labor,” Mr. 
Simpson said, and added with a smile, “ You have no 
real cause to be provoked, Zenas, because of what the 
captain is doing, for if he didn’t remain at the Downs 
home we should be forced to give him shelter here on 
the yacht, and I feel quite certain that wouldn’t be 
wholly agreeable to you.” 

You can bet a great big dollar it wouldn’t,” was 
the emphatic reply, and from that moment Master 
Cushing ceased to complain because the captain of the 
stranded schooner was apparently taking his ease in 
the building which had practically been converted into 
a hospital. 

The lull in the storm which Paul and Ned had hoped 
presaged fair weather, was only a change for the 
worse; by sunset the wind had hauled around to the 
eastward, and snow began to fall in great quantity. 

“ This means that winter has set in with a rush, and 
I’m afraid you will not be able to try out the airship 
until next spring,” Mr. Simpson said to his partner as 
the two men ventured out on deck to take observations 
on the weather, and at the same time make certain the 
N era rode easily at anchor after this decided change in 
the wind. 

“ Whether winter may be at hand or not, it will be 
a long while before we have the Smuggler in condi- 
tion for sailing,” was the grim reply. “ I understood 
when we started out to save those on the wreck that by 
so doing I was abandoning all hopes of aerial navi- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


105 

gation for some time to come. We will keep the ma- 
chinists on the island, if so be they are willing to stay, 
and between now and spring I count on having the 
ship in as good condition as before, for we have spare 
material enough to repair all the damage that may 
have been done.’’ 

While the owners of the island were discussing mat- 
ters on deck Master Cushing and the two boys were in 
the cabin of the Nera turning over and over again a 
certain matter which had been referred to between 
them many times during the forenoon. This was the 
question as to whether it might have been possible that 
John Ed Bingham was one of those unfortunate ones 
who perished on the wreck. 

“ It is possible that his dory might have drifted in 
here before the schooner was driven on the reef,” 
Paul suggested, in which case it would seem to be 
certain that the boat was swamped and he drowned 
when the gale began.” 

You can’t drown that old smuggler so easy as 
that,” Zenas said confidently. “ Them as are born to 
be hanged needn’t be afraid of goin’ to sea.” 

‘‘ He surely was drowned if he went aboard the 
yacht before she struck, as seems likely by our finding 
the fragments of his craft.” 

I sha’n’t believe anythin’ of the kind till I see him 
buried, an’ even then I’ll be a little doubtful that he 
won’t come to life agin’.” 

There’s no need of wasting so much breath over 
the matter, because we shall know all about it as soon 
as either the woman or the man is well enough to talk,” 


io6 AIRSHIP CRUISING 

Ned cried just a trifle petulantly, for this discussion 
as to whether their enemy had come to a violent end 
was not to his liking under the circumstances. 

Before night had fully settled down Zenas went on 
shore again to ascertain the condition of affairs there. 
He came back with the report that matters at the 
Downs home were much the same as at his last visit. 
Sam and Ernest were making themselves comfortable 
in the “ hotel,” with a huge fire in the office fireplace, 
and were not appearing at all disturbed because of 
having been driven from their home. 

Master Cushing had brought back with him the en- 
gineer of the Nera and the two machinists, these last 
three having remained on the island in order to do 
what they might toward protecting the wreck of the 
Smuggler from the wind and snow. 

The storm having hauled around to the eastward 
was a fortunate circumstance so far as concerned the 
safety of the airship, for the rise of land served to 
shelter the hangar to a certain degree from the gale, 
and what was of greater importance, had rendered the 
little harbor a safe place of refuge once more. The 
heavy surf was subsiding on that side of the island, 
and it was the belief of Zenas that by morning it 
would be possible to put out in any direction from the 
Nera without danger of being swamped. 

‘‘ The worst of it all is, that we’re likely to be shut 
in here for the winter,” he said confidentially to Paul 
and Ned. “ ’Cordin’ to what Mr. Sawtelle said about 
fixin’ up the Smuggler, he counts on keepin’ on jest the 
same as if we had a whole summer before us.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


107 


“ Well, suppose he does, that won’t be so very hard 
on you,” Ned said laughingly, and Master Cushing 
turned suddenly as he cried : 

“ I’d like to know why it won’t ? Perhaps you think 
it is a joke to stay here week after week with never 
a chance of gettin’ across to the mainland, an’ I’m 
tellin’ you lads that we’ll see many a day when it 
wouldn’t be safe to put to sea even in the Nera. It’ll 
take a full week, if not more, to put this ’ere yacht in 
sailin’ trim, an’ by that time I’m allowin’ we can reckon 
on one gale after another till a fellow grows sick for 
a sight of the sun.” 

‘‘ It isn’t such a great while ago that I heard you say 
you’d like to stay right here with nothing to do save 
feed the foxes and now and then read up on airships,” 
Paul added with a smile. 

“ That was before everythin’ was a wreck. It 
would seem different if this craft was sound as before 
Cap’ in Tobi’s butter tub came crashin’ down on her, 
if the hangar was whole, an’ if we’d had a chance to 
snug things down ready for bad weather.” 

You’ll have plenty of time to do all that. When 
it stops snowing we must see to it that the Hampton 
boat is securely moored, and then hunt for what may 
be left of the old power-boat. It is just possible she 
can be put in commission again, or, if not, that we can 
save the fittings.” 

‘‘ An’ what about matters over at Swallow-tailed 
Cove ? ” Zenas asked grimly as Paul ceased speaking. 

Matters there?” Ned repeated. ‘‘What do you 
mean? ” 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


io8 

“ There’s one grave on the shore now, an’ likely to 
be more when the sea quiets down so we can find — I 
mean when anythin’ washes up from the wreck.” 

“ Is it possible, Zenas, that you are so superstitious 
as to be afraid of what may seem like a graveyard? ” 
Paul asked in surprise. The poor fellows who have 
gone out of this world cannot come back to disturb 
you.” 

“ That’s as may be,” Master Cushing replied with a 
furtive glance over his shoulder as if he half fancied 
something terrible might be seen. I’m willin’ to 
allow you fellows are in the right about some things, 
an’ then agin you’re all mixed up. When I claimed 
that it was bad luck to name the airship after John Ed, 
you laughed at me, an’ yet the craft is a wreck after 
havin’ made one short cruise.” 

‘‘ Surely you’re not going to claim that it was the 
name that wrecked her ! ” Paul cried. “ The ship 
would be safe in the hangar this very minute if Mr. 
Sawtelle hadn’t taken her out in the hope of saving 
life, knowing that she must be wrecked in landing.” 

‘‘ When the hangar doors were blown in the craft 
was damaged more or less, as you’d have found out if 
it had been possible to make another cruise,” Zenas 
persisted, and both the boys laughed heartily, Paul 
finally saying derisively : 

‘‘ You must needs go far afoot to connect the name 
with what was done by the storm. It is foolishness, 
Zenas, and you know it — quite as silly as that it should 
disturb you because the crew of the wrecked yacht 
found their last resting-place here on Barren Island.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


109 


When a dead man is washed ashore bad luck al- 
ways follows,” Master Cushing said doggedly. “ Jest 
ask Cap’in Tobi if I ain’t right. As a general thing I 
don’t take much stock in anythin’ that old pirate says ; 
but he can give you dates an’ names to back up what 
I’ve said ’bout dead folks.” 

Now you’re talking the veriest kind of nonsense, 
and I won’t listen to it,” Ned replied in a tone of irri- 
tation. I was willing to let you predict ill fortune 
because the airship was named the Smuggler; but 
when you show fear because shipwrecked sailors are 
buried here, it comes very near being wicked.” 

Even though Ned’s reproof had not been sufficient, 
the coming of Mr. Sawtelle and his partner would 
have changed the topic of conversation. The owner 
of the Neva seemed to have accepted as a fact that 
they were much the same as shut in on the island until 
spring came, and was enthusiastic as to what might be 
done during that time when there would be no possi- 
bility of their being disturbed. 

As a matter of course his first care was that the 
yacht should be mended, for in her present condition 
she could not put to sea, and to this end he sum- 
moned the workmen and the engineer, directing that 
they give their attention to the repairs as soon as the 
weather should permit. 

The next task, as he mapped out the work, was to 
re-build the hangar that the Smuggler might be re- 
paired, and to this end he proposed to send the tug, 
which was to come from Portsmouth, to Seaview for 
additional lumber. 


no 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ What about trying to float Captain Tobi’s 
schooner ? ” Mr. Simpson asked. “ She will bury her- 
self so deep in the sand, if allowed to remain where she 
is during the winter, that it will be impossible to haul 
her off.’' 

“ I will see to it that the captain and his crew set 
to work in the morning making ready for the tug to 
get hold of her, and although there is no reason why 
the old sailor should be relieved of the expense of such 
work, I am willing to pay whatever bills may be con- 
tracted in the wrecking operations.” 

Then, in order to be prepared for the coming of the 
steamer from Portsmouth, Mr. Sawtelle and his part- 
ner set about making a list of goods and supplies to 
be brought over from Seaview, and while they were 
thus engaged Zenas whispered : 

“If you fellows get the chance, put in for me to be 
sent to Seaview in the tug.” 

“ Why are you so anxious to go there? ” 

“ I want to find out if anybody there heard of John 
Ed’s bein’ near about here before the storm came up.” 

“ We shall know from the man at Daniel Downs’s 
if he was aboard the schooner.” 

“ That ain’t enough for me. If we’re to be housed 
up on this ’ere island all winter, I want to have a fairly 
good idee of where that old smuggler may be. If he 
wasn’t aboard the schooner yacht, where was he, an’ 
how did the wreck of his dory come ashore here? 
That’s what we may be able to find out at Seaview in 
case the people here don’t know anythin’ about him.” 

“ I’ll speak to father ; but I don’t understand why 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


III 


you are so eager to go on the tug, for there will surely 
be many days between now and spring when we can 
run across in the Hampton boat,’' Paul said, almost 
impatient because Master Cushing insisted on looking 
forward to possible trouble from their old enemy after 
it seemed most probable he had met a violent death. 

As has been said, now that the wind came from the 
eastward the little harbor was under the lee of the 
land, consequently the Nera rode easily at her moor- 
ings, although it was possible to hear the moaning of 
the gale and the sifting of the snow through the rig- 
ging. 

The boys slept as peacefully as if nothing had oc- 
curred to disturb the serenity of Silver Fox Farm; but 
it was rather a dispiriting scene which met their gaze 
when they went on deck next morning. 

Snow to the depth of several inches already covered 
the island, the yacht, the stranded schooner and the 
Hampton boat, and was yet falling in steady volume. 
The wind was not blowing so furiously, but it was 
even now what might be called a half gale, and Zenas 
said as he shivered in the wintry blast : 

I reckon we may as well get to work shoveling this 
off the deck, for now that Mr. Sawtelle is set on havin’ 
the yacht repaired, he won’t be likely to wait very 
long before commencing the job.” 

That Master Cushing was correct in his surmises 
was shown when breakfast was being served, for then 
the owner of the Nera laid out the work for the day 
regardless of the storm. 

After you lads have cleared the forward deck so 


1 12 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


the men can get to work making repairs, you are to go 
to Mrs. Downs’s in order to learn how the invalids are 
getting on. Then you will look in at the hangar, to 
see if anything is needed to be done there immediately. 
If Mrs. Downs can dispense with her husband’s ser- 
vices for an hour or two, send him and the boys over 
to Swallow-tailed Cove to see what has been washed 
up from the wreck. In case the man who was rescued 
is able to talk, come back here for me without delay. 
We can report the disaster by wireless, and to do so it 
is necessary we get all the information possible.” 

The first of those tasks was performed in short 
order, the Neva's deck being so far freed from snow 
that the machinists and the engineer could ascertain 
the full extent of the damage done, and then the three 
went ashore, Zenas pulling the dory around to where 
Captain Tobi’s craft lay on her broadside covered with 
a mantle of snow as if, so Master Cushing suggested, 
she had been wrapped up in white cloth to keep her 
from being moth-eaten.” 

A thin thread of smoke was coming out from the 
short length of pipe which rose slightly above the top 
of the deck house, and Zenas said laughingly as he 
pointed to it : 

‘‘ In there is what you might call an easy-goin’ pair. 
They allow that their wages are runnin’ on, same’s if 
they were afloat, an’ count on takin’ all the comfort 
possible. They must have shifted the stove, most 
likely to the side of Cap’ in Tobi’s cabin, an’ with a 
fire goin’ to prevent ’em from bein’ frost-bitten, they 
don’t care whether school keeps or not.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


113 

Then Master Cushing hailed the stranded craft, and 
within a few seconds a bullet-shaped head appeared 
through the companionway, the hatch of which was 
opened only sufficiently to admit of this partial exit. 

“ What’s wanted ? ” the man asked as if surprised 
that any one should think it necessary to disturb him. 

‘‘We didn’t know but that you might be needin’ 
somethin’, though ’cordin’ to what can be seen I’d say 
you were gettin’ along right well for a couple of ship- 
wrecked mariners.” 

“ I reckon we’ll pull through all right so long as the 
cap’en stays ashore; but if he should try to get the 
whole of himself inside here now we’ve kind’er shifted 
things around, my mate an’ me would be a bit crowded. 
It wouldn’t do any harm if you was to bring us a little 
tobacco, ’cause we’re likely to run low before this ’ere 
craft floats agin.” 

“ Sure that’s all you want ? Ain’t needin’ pepper- 
mint drops or a nursin’ bottle, eh? When Mr. Saw- 
telle gets ready to send you a few toys, an’ perhaps a 
teethin’ ring, so’s time sha’n’t hang heavy on your 
hands. I’ll ’tend to the tobacco end of the business,” 
and Master Cushing went on his way laughing, the 
boys following at his heels as Paul asked : 

“ How long do you suppose those fellows would 
stay shut in if no one interfered with them? ” 

“ I reckon they’d be there till the crack of doom, if 
the provisions held out. They’ve got the idee that 
Cap’in Tobi will pay them wages, an’ most likely they’ll 
work the snap for all it’s worth.” 

When the three arrived at the Downs home it was 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


114 

not necessary to repeat certain of Mr. Sawtelle’s 
orders. Captain Tobi and Daniel, together with the 
boys, had already set off to search the shore of Swal- 
low-tailed Cove for that which might have been cast^ 
up by the sea. Mrs. Downs reported that all the in- 
valids were in a fair way of recovery, and that the man 
was eager to speak with one of the owners of the 
island. 

Ten minutes later both Mr. Sawtelle and Mr. Simp- 
son were at the house, while Zenas and the boys, how- 
ever much they would have liked to be present at the 
interview with the rescued man, continued on to the 
hangar. At this last point everything appeared to be 
in fair condition, so far as might be judged without 
digging beneath the surface of the snow. 

At the wireless station it was necessary to do no 
little work before matters were set to rights, and then 
the three made a tour of the “ hotel,” learning to their 
satisfaction that no damage had been done either to 
the building or its contents. 

It was while they busied themselves in the office, or 
library, whichever it should be called, effacing the evi- 
dences of the Downs boys’ slovenly occupancy, that the 
owners of the island entered, their interview with the 
invalid having been brought to a close. 

“ It is a singular coincidence that the only man 
saved from the wreck is the husband of the woman 
rescued by the airship,” Mr. Simpson said in reply to 
Paul’s questions. His name is Edward Barton, and 
he owned the yacht Mermaid which went ashore. Al- 
though still suffering from exposure, and considerably 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


115 

weakened, he is in good shape. The knowledge that 
her husband and child were saved did a great deal to- 
ward reviving Mrs. Barton, and, as you can well 
fancy, it is quite a happy, and certainly a thankful, 
family that occupies Daniel’s home.” 

“ Did you think to inquire if they knew anythin’ 
about John Ed? ” Zenas asked eagerly when Mr. Simp- 
son ceased speaking for an instant. 

“ He wasn’t in very good condition for talking, yet 
I did ask that question, and he assured me no stranger 
came aboard his vessel after she left Halifax. Then 
he had the same crew that was shipped in Boston 
early in the season.” 

“ An’ he didn’t come across anybody in a dory the 
night before the schooner was wrecked?” 

I didn’t question him quite as closely as that, yet 
I feel confident he would have mentioned the fact, if 
he had seen any one who might have been the smug- 
gler Bingham.” 

Then how did his dory drift into Swallow-tailed 
Cove ? ” Zenas persisted. 

‘‘ It may have been stove miles from here, and was 
brought by the wind and the tide to this place.” 

“ That wouldn’t explain our findin’ the wreckage at 
this end of the cove, for the ledge at the entrance pre- 
vents drift-stuff from cornin’ in,” and now Zenas spoke 
in an emphatic tone, positive that the statement he 
made was correct, although Mr. Sawtelle was inclined 
to take exceptions to it. 

“ The schooner came in, and why not the wreck of 
the dory? ” the owner of the Nera asked. 


ii6 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ ’Cause the craft was what you might call driven 
over the ledge, the wind havin’ full sweep on her ; but 
a bit of half-sunken dory-rail would have been caught 
on the rocks with nothin’ to force it across.” 

I’m not inclined to argue with you as to the where- 
abouts of John Ed Bingham,” Mr. Sawtelle said with 
a smile. “ It is of little concern to us where the old i 
fellow may be, since we know he isn’t here, and you 
are wasting the good gray matter of your brain, 
Zenas, when you speculate so persistently upon what 
is no affair of ours.” 

That may all be as he says,” Master Cushing mut- 
tered when he and the boys were on their way to the 
shore in order to set the gentlemen aboard the yacht. 

** Perhaps it ain’t any affair of ours; but all the same 
I’m sayin’ that it stands us in hand to know where that 
old villain may be.” 

** He surely can’t trouble us this winter, and we 
needn’t bother our heads about what may happen in 
the spring,” Paul said laughingly, whereupon the con- 
versation ceased, owing to the arrival of the owners 
of the island. 

From that moment until the gentlemen were put 
aboard the Nera Zenas did not speak, and then he in- 
sisted that he and the boys set off in search of the old 
power-boat. 

What’s the sense in pulling around the coast while 
the sea runs so high and the snow is coming down in 
bunches?” Ned asked petulantly. 

“If we don’t find her before the snow is done fail- 
in’ we may not set eyes on her this winter, for every- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


117 

thin’ on this ’ere island is likely to be covered mighty 
thick before we see the sun agin.” 

It was not at all to the liking of the boys to make 
the search in such a storm; but since there was noth- 
ing else with which to occupy the time, they were 
seemingly forced to comply with Master Cushing’s 
wishes. Mr. Sawtelle had previously announced that 
he would endeavor to send out information regarding 
the fate of the Mermaid over the Nero's wireless ap- 
paratus, therefore unless they joined the searchers on 
the shores of Swallow-tailed Cove, which they were 
not inclined to do, hunting for the old power-boat 
would serve to keep them busy. 

It would have been as well, however, if they had re- 
mained in the cabin of the yacht, for nothing could be 
seen of the missing craft when nearly the entire east- 
ern coast of the island had been traversed, and the 
only conclusion which could reasonably be arrived at 
was that the little boat had been blown out to sea, 
where she probably foundered. 

At noon a loud hail from the shore in the vicinity 
of the stranded schooner proclaimed the coming of 
Captain Tobi, and very unwillingly Zenas left the 
cabin to bring him on board, muttering half to himself 
and half to the cook as he went: 

** Now we’ve got to have that old pirate bellowin’ 
’round the rest of the day. I don’t see why he can’t 
go aboard his own vessel, where he belongs, an’ not 
be makin’ life miserable for other people.” 

Master Cushing brought the old sailor on board, 
however, averse though he was to doing so, and much 


ii8 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


to his surprise Captain Tobi gave no token of bellow- 
ing.” The mournful work in which he and Daniel 
Downs had been engaged quieted him down to such 
a degree that he not only spoke in an ordinary tone, 
but made no attempt to dictate as to what should or 
should not be done. 

“ I reckon weVe taken care of the poor fellows, an’ 
a pitiful lot there were of them,” the captain said in 
reply to Mr. Simpson’s whispered question. It had 
to be done before the snow fell too deep, an’ it’s a big 
relief to know the job is over. An’ now, sir, may I 
ask what you gentlemen are countin’ on doin’ ? ” 

The old sailor appeared greatly surprised to learn 
that the owners of the island were intending to spend 
the winter there, and that work on the airship was to 
be continued whenever the weather permitted. He 
evidently had supposed they would make all haste to 
gain the mainland, and did not seem to be fully at 
ease until Mr. Sawtelle had explained what it was 
proposed to do in regard to floating the schooner. 

I’d been afraid the poor old craft would have to 
lay where she was till next spring, seein’s how I 
couldn’t afford to hire a tug to haul her off. If you’re 
countin’ on givin’ me a lift in that direction. I’ll take 
it very kindly of you, an’ do what I can to make things 
even.” 

Then the cook was summoned to provide Captain 
Tobi with a hearty meal, and when he had feasted on 
what he had previously called “ finercky crackshaws,” 
meaning such dishes as were often served aboard the 
Neva, he recovered in a great degree from his mourn- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


1 19 

fulness, being ready to discuss with Zenas as to how 
it might have happened that the wreck of John Ed’s 
dory had been thrown ashore on Barren Island, and 
more particularly at the head of Swallow-tailed Cove. 

‘‘ Fve turned the matter over in my mind forty 
times since last night, an’ the only way I can see head 
or tail to the whole business, is in agreein’ that he 
boarded some craft outside when the storm first come 
up, an’ let the old boat go adrift as not bein’ worth 
takin’ inboard.” 

“ Supposin’ he did jest as you’ve said, how did the 
wreckage get over the ledge into the cove ? ” Zenas 
persisted, and Captain Tobi shook his head in per- 
plexity : 

‘‘ I allow that anythin’ like driftin’ timbers couldn’t 
be driven into the head of the cove; but you found the 
stuff there, an’ all we can say is that what couldn’t 
have happened has happened.” 

With this sage remark the old sailor appeared to 
think the matter settled beyond further question, and 
began to discuss with Mr. Sawtelle the best method of 
setting about floating his schooner, seemingly forget- 
ting that it might be well for him to have personal 
knowledge of what was going on aboard her. 

Before the day had come to a close Mr. Sawtelle 
succeeded in sending to the outer world information 
of the disaster to the Mermaid, and had also received 
a message from the government to the effect that if 
the storm cleared away, as it then gave promise of 
doing, the tug would set off for Barren Island. 

This last information rendered it necessary for the 


120 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


owners of the island to pay another visit to Mr. Bar- 
ton to learn if he would like to be sent over to the 
mainland next day in case the chartered steamer ar- 
rived sufficiently early to permit of her going to 
Seaview, and, as can be imagined, the gentleman was 
only too well pleased at thus being able to gain his 
home. 

Within the next forty-eight hours we shall be able 
to settle down to our winter’s work with the assurance 
that we will not be disturbed for several months,” Mr. 
Sawtelle said as if he found something satisfying in 
such possibility, and straightway he consulted with 
his partner as to the list of goods needed, which had 
already been written at considerable length. 

This gave Zenas an opportunity of requesting that 
he be allowed to take passage on the steamer, claiming 
that if he was to remain much the same as a prisoner 
on the island during so long a time, it was absolutely 
necessary he visit Seaview for the transaction of cer- 
tain business. 

To the gentlemen this seemed a reasonable request, 
and was granted without argument, whereupon Master 
Cushing appeared remarkably well pleased, saying to 
the boys at the first opportunity he had for a private 
interview : 

If all that stuff Mr. Sawtelle is layin’ out to buy 
must be put aboard the tug. I’ll have time enough to 
find out everything I want to know about John Ed.” 

'' You’re allowing the old smuggler to make more 
trouble for you by keeping away from Barren Island, 
than if he was on the spot trying to do some injury to 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


I2I 


the foxes,’’ Paul said laughingly. “ Take my advice, 
Zenas, and give over troubling about him until he 
troubles you.” 

“ It might be a bit too late then, and this time, in 
case he counts on cornin’ here, I’ll be ready for him.” 

“ You are making preparations early, for it isn’t 
likely he’d even think of coming till next spring.” 

“ You never can tell by measuring a cat’s tail how 
far she can jump,” was the rather odd reply, and then 
all hands aboard the Nera turned in ” for a needed 
rest. Captain Tobi insisting on being allowed to take 
possession of the spare cabin on the plea that there 
was no room for him at Daniel Downs’s home while 
the castaways were there. 

At a reasonably early hour next day the tugboat 
from Portsmouth arrived, and in accordance with Mr. 
Barton’s wishes no time was lost in sending her to 
Seaview, Zenas taking passage as he had agreed 
upon. 

During this day there was plenty of work for all 
hands, even including the owners of the island. The 
task of repairing the yacht was continued, while all 
the others, including the male portion of the Downs 
family, busied themselves with shoveling snow, and 
getting ready for winter weather in the way of pro- 
tecting the buildings so far as was possible by storm 
windows and doors, all of which had been provided at 
the time the structures had been erected. 

It was understood that on the following day, and 
so long as the weather permitted, Sam and Ernest 
should spend all their time fishing, in order to lay up 


122 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


a supply of food for the foxes, which could be kept 
sweet by being frozen. The crew of Captain Tobi’s 
schooner were forced, much against their will, to join 
in the labors, and from that time until the return of 
the tug no person on the island spent an idle moment. 

In addition to a large supply of stores the chartered 
steamer brought a quantity of lumber for the re-build- 
ing of the hangar, and to put this ashore by throwing 
it overboard was by no means as pleasant a task as 
when the same work was performed in the summer. 
It was necesary to use the Hampton boat to run the 
timbers up to the beach, and Captain Tobi’s crew com- 
plained bitterly because of being forced to drag each 
stick and board out of the icy cold water; but there 
was no shirking the job, for until it was concluded the 
work of floating the schooner would not be begun. 

While the old sailor was driving his men by much 
noise in the way of shouting and useless commands 
in a tempest-like note, Zenas and the boys were so 
busily engaged on board the Hampton boat that there 
was little opportunity for conversation, although it 
could readily be seen that Master Cushing was most 
eager to impart information, and Paul said laughingly : 

“ Pm hoping you won’t burst, Zenas, before you 
have a chance to tell us what terrible news you 
gathered at Seaview. We’ll be able to listen to the 
story this evening, and when it is well off your mind 
you’ll be in better shape to help float the schooner. I 
heard father say the job would be begun bright and 
early to-morrow morning.” 


CHAPTER VII 


MASTER Cushing’s scheme 

There was no doubt but that Zenas had on his 
mind something he believed to be of greatest impor- 
tance, and which must be kept secret from all but Paul 
and Ned. At the table that evening he was so pre- 
occupied as to be almost unable to answer the ques- 
tions concerning Seaview which Mr. Sawtelle asked, 
and, what was most unusual, he failed to eat heartily, 
a fact which caused Mr. Simpson to inquire if he felt 
ill. 

‘‘ I reckon I’ll pull through all right,” Master Cush- 
ing said with a laugh betokening confusion, for he 
suddenly became aware that he was, to say the least, 
acting in an odd manner. ‘‘ Pullin’ lumber out of 
the water in weather like this ain’t calculated to make 
a fellow feel any too good.” 

“ Paul and Ned seem to have stood the cold work 
better than you did,” Mr. Sawtelle suggested, and one 
might have fancied from the twinkle in his eyes that 
he suspected Zenas was trying to conceal some fact. 

Immediately the meal had come to an end Master 
Cushing whispered to the boys, as he led them on 
deck in a very mysterious manner: 

“ Now, I want you to go ashore to the wireless sta- 
tion with me.” 


123 


124 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ Is this secret of yours so very important that it 
can’t be told here — in the wheel-house, for instance, 
where there’s no chance that what you say can be 
heard by others ? ” Paul asked. 

‘‘ I ain’t runnin’ any risks. Somebody might sneak 
up on us if we staid aboard, an’ what I’ve got to say 
will take quite a spell.” 

Neither Paul nor Ned was inclined to go ashore, 
for the weather was cold, and a climb up the hill fac- 
ing the easterly wind was by no means agreeable to 
contemplate ; but Zenas was so insistent, and appeared 
to think that which he had to impart was of such vital 
importance, that they could not well refuse, although 
exceedingly weary after the hard labor of the day. 

Master Cushing would have been better pleased if 
the boys had left the yacht stealthily, giving no hint 
to any one as to their purpose ; but Paul refused posi- 
tively to go without telling his father, and the latter, 
after showing considerable surprise because the lads 
should prefer to wander about on shore when they 
might be comfortable in the well- warmed cabin of 
the Nera, made no objections. 

Without delay Zenas pulled the dory alongside, and 
while Paul and Ned were clambering over the rail 
Captain Tobi came from below, suggesting that he 
be taken as passenger, as it was now possible for him 
to find lodgings at Daniel Downs’ since the castaways 
had departed. 

To the surprise of his companions. Master Cushing 
readily consented to this proposition, although the 
weight of the old sailor loaded the little craft nearly 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


125 


to the gunwales; but he remained obstinately silent 
during the passage and while walking up the hill, 
saying never a word in answer to Captain Tobi’s many 
questions until they parted with him at the path lead- 
ing to the Downs home and had gained the door of 
the wireless station. 

If I hadn’t brought the old pirate ashore he’d have 
raised no end of a row, an’ it ain’t any two to one 
that the bosses might have been curious to know why 
we wanted to be by ourselves. One of you light the 
lantern, an’ I’ll build a fire.” 

Are we to be here so long that all this is neces- 
sary?” Ned asked as he obeyed the command, and 
Zenas replied grimly: 

I’m thinkin’ it’ll take quite a spell to chew over 
what I found out at Seaview, for we’ve got to do a 
deal of plannin’.” 

“Well, what did you find out?” Paul asked im- 
patiently, his teeth chattering with the cold. 

Not until everything had been arranged to his en- 
tire satisfaction did Zenas speak again, and then, as 
the three huddled around the stove striving to shield 
their bodies from the chilling wind which came 
through every tiny crevice of the building, he said as 
if announcing that which would cause consternation 
in the hearts of his hearers: 

“ I know where John Ed Bingham is ! ” 

“If he isn’t on Barren Island I can’t see why you 
should have made so much of a mystery about the 
fact.” 

“ But that’s only the beginnin’ of what I’ve got to 


126 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


say. John Ed was out in his old dory the night the 
storm came up, and findin' that he hadn’t the ghost 
of a chance to get back to the mainland if he stuck 
to the craft, signaled old man Jones, who happened 
along that way in the Ellen Maria, an’ was taken 
aboard. The sea was runnin’ so high that they couldn’t 
save the dory, so she was allowed to go adrift.” 

Where did all that happen? ” 

‘‘ About two miles north of this island.” 

Do you suppose John Ed was tryin’ to land 
here ? ” 

‘T don’t believe it, else he’d have tried for the 
southerly point, where he’d have a lee with the wind 
as it was. Most likely he was a good deal further to 
the nor’ard, and was blown down this way.” 

‘‘All that doesn’t explain how the wreck of the 
dory found its way to the head of Swallow-tailed 
Cove,” Ned said as if he was not overly interested in 
this alleged important news brought by Zenas. 

“ That part of it is what we may never find out till 
we know how it happened John Ed got away after be- 
in’ chucked into the hold of Cap’ in Tobi’s butter tub. 
But here’s what’ll interest you : John Ed is livin’ this 
very minute on that point that makes out from Pleas- 
ant Harbor — it’s what you might almost call an island, 
seein’ there’s a swamp cuts it off from the solid 
ground. Billy Mansfield told me all about it; he 
claims John Ed has really settled down there for the 
winter — laid in a stock of provisions, an’ says he 
won’t show his nose agin till warm weather. There’s 
a shanty on the point which Sam Bassett built sum- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


127 


mer before last when he was herrin’ fishin’, an’ I 
allow the old smuggler has contrived to patch it up 
till it’s fit for a man to live in while the weather is 
cold.” 

“ Well,” and there was no evidence of excitement 
in Paul’s tone, if John Ed has housed himself up 
for the winter, not intending to come out until spring, 
I can’t see but that we shall get along without much 
to worry us. We needn’t bother our heads trying to 
make out how the wreck of the dory could have got 
across the reef, nor keep such very sharp watch over 
the foxes.” 

Is that all you can see in what I’ve told you ? ” 
Master Cushing asked in a reproachful tone. 

‘‘ What else is there to the yarn, except that the old 
smuggler has been so kind as to put himself into cold 
storage for quite a spell? ” 

“ There’s this to it : Now is the time for us to lay 
him by the heels without the least little bit of a chance 
that he can give us the slip ” 

‘‘ You’ve tried that before, Zenas, and if I remem- 
ber rightly you didn’t come out with flying colors,” 
and Paul laughed heartily as his thoughts went back 
to that time when John Ed so neatly turned the tables 
on them. 

This time everything is different, an’ he can’t 
sneak out of the trap I’ve fixed for him in my 
mind ” 

“ What sense is there in running after him, if you’re 
certain he means to stay in the fishing shanty all win- 
ter?” Ned asked petulantly, and Zenas gazed at the 


128 AIRSHIP CRUISING 

lad in something very like astonishment as he replied 
sharply : 

“ What sense ? Why, now’s the time when we can 
make sure of puttin’ the old villain where he belongs, 
an’ next spring we won’t have to sleep with our eyes 
open for fear he’ll contrive to play us some kind of a 
trick. Ever since Silver Fox Farm was started it’s 
been a case of watchin’ out against John Ed, an’ 
every time we’ve laid still lettin’ him come under our 
very noses before we did anything. Now we’ll turn 
about, an’ chase him as he’s chased us, only in this 
case he can’t get away. Within two days, if you lads 
will join me, we’ll have him in jail.” 

** I don’t believe in going abroad to find trouble 
when we’ve got so much work to do here,” Paul re- 
plied reflectively; ‘‘but at the same time I’d like to 
know what kind of a scheme you’ve cooked up which 
is so certain of being successful.” 

“ It’s as easy as rollin’ off a log. All we’ve got 
to do is run down to Pleasant Harbor, take him aboard 
the Hampton boat, an’ turn him over to Mr. Saw- 
telle ” 

“ The same as we did at Apple Island ? ” Paul sug- 
gested laughingly. 

“ But I’m tellin’ you that this time things have 
changed. John Ed has settled down for the winter; 
he won’t be expectin’ we’d come after him, ’specially 
if he hears how everything here was wrecked in the 
gale, an’ in five minutes after we make the point he’ll 
be trussed up on board. I’ve bought a revolver, for 
I don’t count on trustin’ to my fists,” and Zenas dis- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


129 


played with considerable pride a pocket weapon which 
might possibly have been effective at very short range. 

Pleasant Harbor is at least five miles below Sea- 
view, and we’re twenty miles from the mainland.” 

‘‘ What of that? We can make Seaview in a couple 
of hours, do our business there, and in less’n half an 
hour afterward have the old smuggler aboard. I’m 
reckonin’ he’ll be the most surprised man in this sec- 
tion of the country.” 

‘‘ The last part of your scheme seems to promise 
well ; but how are you to get to Seaview in the Hamp- 
ton boat ? ” Paul asked, now growing mildly interested 
in that which had so excited Master Cushing that he 
was willing to spend a considerable portion of his 
wages in the purchase of a weapon. 

“ I’ve thought all that out, lad, an’ can’t see any 
hitch in the business. Billy Mansfield didn’t have all 
the stores that our order called for, but promised to 
have the rest when the next steamer came down from 
Boston. Then, of course, it’ll be a case of goin’ over 
after the stuff, an’ who’s to go? It don’t stand to rea- 
son Mr. Sawtelle will keep that tug-boat here any 
longer than she’s actually needed, ’cause it must be 
costin’ a heap of money, an’ after she’s gone how’ll we 
send to Seaview ? In the Hampton, of course, watch- 
in’ our chance for pleasant weather. Who’ll sail the 
Hampton? We three, of course, same’s we’ve al- 
ways done. There’s no reason why any one else 
should be sent; the machinists and the engineer of the 
Nera have too much ship- joiner work on hand to be 
spared, so we three will run the packet.” 


130 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


*^And then what?’’ Ned asked impatiently. 

Why, then we’ll run over to Seaview on the first 
fair day, makin’ an early start so’s to get there by ten 
o’clock in the forenoon. If Mansfield has the goods 
we’re needin’, they should be aboard by noon. Once 
the cargo is stowed we’ll put out as if cornin’ back 
here ; but instead, we’ll scoot down to Pleasant Harbor 
with a rush, takin’ John Ed by surprise. When he 
sees this ’ere shootin’ iron he’ll obey orders as meek as 
any lamb, an’ we can show him up on this island quite 
a while before sunset. It’s all so easy that it’s like 
takin’ candy from children, an’ what’s best of all, we’ll 
have the laugh so far on Cap’in Tobi that he’ll never 
twit us with what’s happened in the past.” 

The mental picture which Zenas drew was to him 
so entrancing that he leaned back in the chair and 
gave way to noisy mirth until the tears came in his 
eyes, while Paul and Ned gave evidence of having be- 
come interested in the scheme, indifferent though they 
had been at the outset. 

‘‘ It sounds all right, and I can’t see why the plan 
won’t work, for of course John Ed isn’t likely to sus- 
pect that we’d chase him up when he wasn’t doing any 
mischief,” Ned said thoughtfully after a long pause 
during which Zenas partially recovered from what 
was little less than a paroxysm of mirth. “ The ques- 
tion in my mind is, why should we run down the coast 
for the old smuggler when there’s plenty here to be 
done. Why not leave him where he is until spring? ” 

‘‘ Because you couldn’t tell when he might slip out 
to have a whack at us, an’ also we’d be fearin’ all 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


131 

winter that he’d be sneakin’ ’round. Now’s the time 
when we can settle him once an’ for all, an’ it would 
be a mighty foolish trick to lose the chance.” 

Again Zenas went into the details of the scheme to 
show most emphatically that it could not fail of being 
successful providing he and the two boys were sent to 
Seaview in the Hampton boat, and arguing most 
strenuously that if they were to have any peace of 
mind during the winter, it was necessary they so ar- 
range matters that the old smuggler would be unable 
to move about at will. 

The result of all his words was that both Paul and 
Ned came to believe they were in duty bound to act 
upon his suggestions, although both lads favored go- 
ing to the owners of the island with the information 
regarding John Ed. 

To this last Master Cushing refused to listen for an 
instant. He claimed that the credit would be all the 
greater if they did the work secretly, giving no inti- 
mation of what was afoot until they had the prisoner 
on board the Hampton ready for delivery to Mr. 
Sawtelle. 

‘‘ Besides all that,” Master Cushing said emphatic- 
ally, the more who know where John Ed is, the 
greater are the chances that somethin’ might leak out, 
an’ if Cap’in Tobi should come to hear of it, he’d mud- 
dle the whole business. Our only safe plan is to keep 
quiet till the job has been done. There’s no need for 
me to say that the owners of this ’ere island would be 
mighty glad to have the old smuggler put where he 
couldn’t get away, on the charge of try in’ to kill you 


132 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


who were in the Silver Fox that day at Seaview, an’ 
Mr. Sawtelle will come pretty near jumpin’ out of his 
skin with joy when we hand him John Ed trussed up 
shipshape.” 

Although the boys did not agree in words to join 
Master Cushing’s scheme, it was well understood by 
all three that they stood ready to do their share when 
the opportunity came for making a prisoner of their 
enemy. This settled to his satisfaction, Zenas un- 
folded the remainder of his budget of news, by say- 
ing: 

I had quite a long talk with that Mr. Edward Bar- 
ton while the tug was runnin’ across. He seems to be 
a real decent kind of a man, an’ I allow he’s countin’ 
on doin’ somethin’ handsome on account of our savin’ 
him an’ his family, which is no more’n he ought’er, 
seein’s he must have considerable money, else he 
couldn’t be knockin’ ’round in such a yacht as I allow 
. the Mermaid was.” 

It seemed to me that his only desire was to leave 
Barren Island at the earliest possible moment,” Paul 
added thoughtfully. “ He hardly thanked Mr. Saw- 
telle and father, but went on board the steamer like a 
man who has paid his passage and is entitled to the 
best that’s to be had. His wife may have thanked 
Mrs. Downs ; but I don’t believe she even spoke to any 
one else.” 

“ I took heed to all that, an’ couldn’t help wonderin’ 
at it. You can be sure I kept out of his way when we 
started, thinkin’ to myself that if he was too high an’ 
mighty to have any truck with them who had hauled 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


133 


his folks ashore, riskin’ their own lives to do it, I 
wouldn’t be the one to give him a call down. When we 
were under way, though, he came on deck where I 
was sittin’ under the lee of the engine-room house, an’ 
was as friendly as you please; wanted to know all 
about what we’d been doin’ in the way of buildin’ air- 
ships, an’ if the Smuggler was a total wreck. After 
I’d given up all I knew, he inquired about how he could 
send word to us in case he was wantin’ to do so, an’ I 
advised him to put his letters in care of Billy Mans- 
field, for it stood to reason that we’d be goin’ over to 
Seaview now an’ then durin’ the winter.” 

I surely hope he won’t send anything in the way 
of a gift,” Paul cried sharply. “ It would be too much 
like being paid for what you and the others did when 
you took such desperate chances aboard the airship, 
risking your lives with only a faint hope of saving 
others.” 

I don’t see why he shouldn’t pay for it,” Zenas re- 
plied stoutly. “ He mustn’t offer me anythin’ unless 
he reckons on my takin’ it, for I’m not so thin-skinned 
that I ain’t willin’ to accept what I’ve earned. Riskin’ 
my life was my own look-out; but if I did it, an’ helped 
save his wife an’ child, there’s no reason why he 
shouldn’t square matters, instead of goin’ off as he did, 
like he had a grouch against the whole crowd who’d 
had a hand in pullin’ him out’er the water when he 
was much the same as a goner.” 

‘‘ There’s no reason why we should lose any sleep 
over whal Mr. Barton may do,” Ned cried laughingly, 
“ for he may not be minded to think of us again; but 


134 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


it surely stands us in hand to go aboard if we’re 
counting on getting any sleep to-night. We’re 
needing all the rest possible, for to-morrow is likely 
to be a busy day, if Captain Tobi’s schooner is to be 
floated.” 

Then the stove was closed carefully to prevent any 
chance that sparks could escape to set fire to the build- 
ing; the lantern was extinguished, and the three went 
hurriedly to the shore of the harbor, arriving on board 
the N era to find that all hands had turned in ” for 
the night. 

Although the conspirators against the freedom of 
John Ed Bingham’s liberty were considerably excited 
by what had been agreed upon that evening, they were 
soon sleeping soundly and noisily, not to awaken until 
the cook gave verbal notice in a loud voice that break- 
fast would be served in ten minutes. 

The sun had not yet risen ; but the boys understood 
that this early beginning of the day’s work was due 
to the fact that the tide would be at its height at ten 
o’clock, when, if Captain Tobi’s schooner was to be 
floated, it must be done. 

Even before the morning meal aboard the Neva 
had come to an end the old sailor could be heard on 
the shore giving needless orders in a hurricane-like 
note, and Master Cushing said impatiently: 

“ He’ll bellow from now till the work has been done, 
if so be it ever is. It’s a pity he can’t be made to un- 
derstand that we’d get on a good deal better without 
him an’ his howlin’.” 

“ You might suggest something of the kind to him,” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


135 

Mr. Sawtelle said with a merry twinkle in his eyes, 
and Zenas replied with a grin : 

“ It would be jest about the same as if I was to try 
to whisper in the ear of a ragin' hyena. He’d boil all 
over himself, an’ howl louder’n ever.” 

Even though he did make unnecessary noise. Cap- 
tain Tobi and his crew had already done very much 
toward releasing the schooner from the bed of sand 
which held her as if in chains. At the stern the sand 
had been dug away to form a miniature canal, and 
timbers shoved beneath the keel in such manner that 
she could not sink deeper when the steamer pulled on 
her; but yet there remained sufficient in the way of 
preparation for the work to call for the efforts of all 
the men and boys on the island. Even Mr. Sawtelle 
and Mr. Simpson lent a hand, and the Downs boys, 
much against their will, were forced to strain every 
muscle under the keen oversight of Captain Tobi. 

The Neva was allowed to fall back toward the en- 
trance to the harbor that she might not interfere with 
the wrecking operations, and shortly before the tide 
was at its height hawsers were stretched from the 
stranded craft to the steamer. Then, at the precise 
moment when the waters ceased to rise, the tug-boat 
began her work, putting a steady strain on the ropes, 
and increasing speed as the clumsy vessel gave token 
of being moved. 

Again and again did the chartered boat back up to 
take a fresh hold, as it were, pulling and puffing until 
to the boys it seemed certain Captain Tobi’s “ butter 
tub ” would be wrenched apart, and then, just as Zenas 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


136 

had announced it as his belief that the old craft 
would remain where she was “ until the day of doom,” 
the panting tug gained the victory. 

Slowly, as if reluctant to leave her bed of sand, the 
schooner was hauled inch by inch toward the water, 
the sea foaming over the stern while the bow yet held 
to the land, and then, with deck awash it was as if she 
leaped into the harbor, raising a mighty wave that 
caused the Nera to reel to and fro as if under a heavy 
blow. 

There is no need to say that the island resounded 
with cheers when the “ butter tub ” went staggering 
across the harbor until she was brought to a stand-still 
by her anchors, and without loss of time Captain Tobi 
began issuing a variety of orders to his crew of two 
until both men were, as Zenas said, “ runnin’ around 
like chickens with their heads cut off.” 

The clumsy schooner was securely moored near the 
northerly side of the harbor, with an anchor out at 
both bow and stern, but it would be a considerable 
time before she could be gotten under way again. All 
the head rigging had been torn asunder when she 
fouled with the Nera, and consequently much work 
was necessary before she would be in a sea-going con- 
dition. 

The yacht was hauled back to her former anchorage, 
and then every one began to realize the necessity of 
at least one more small boat as a tender for the Nera. 
The only craft of the kind was Captain Tobias dory 
which Zenas had unearthed from the sand, and there 
would be many times when communication with the 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


137 


shore must be sadly interrupted because of the impos- 
sibility of making a landing until after one crew had 
waited upon the convenience of the other. 

“ Here’s where we get the chance of runnin’ over 
to Seaview sooner than was expected,” Zenas whis- 
pered gleefully to Paul. “ We’re needin’ at least two 
more dories, for the Downs boys must have one if 
they’re to do any fishin’, an’ about the time Mr. Saw- 
telle has to wait on Cap’in Tobi’s pleasure in order to 
get ashore, he’ll start us off flyin’ ! ” 

No sooner was the schooner floated than the en- 
gineer and the machinists continued their work of re- 
pairing the damage done the Neva, both owners of the 
island lending a hand, while Zenas and the boys were 
instructed to call upon Mr. Downs and his sons for 
assistance in carrying the lumber unloaded from the 
tug-boat to the vicinity of the hangar, where it was to 
be used. 

At this point Mr. Sawtelle began to realize the sore 
need for one or two more dories. Captain Tobi had 
taken possession of his at the time the schooner was 
hauled off, and now Zenas shouted himself hoarse in 
the vain effort to make the old sailor understand that 
a part of the Neva's crew must be set ashore. 

We won’t labor under such disadvantages very 
long,” the owner of the Neva said petulantly as he 
signaled for the chartered steamer to come alongside, 
and Master Cushing’s hopes were dashed momentarily, 
for he believed it was Mr. Sawtelle’s purpose to send 
the tug to Seaview in search of dories. 

He breathed more freely when the steamer was 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


138 

alongside, however, for the owner of the Nera, after 
asking that the steamer’s people set the lads ashore, 
announced that he would pay for what had been done, 
and that the tug might start for Portsmouth as soon 
as it pleased her commander. 

There was nothing like sport to be found in drag- 
ging or carrying the lumber up the hill, and before the 
task was finished Sam and Ernest had announced 
again and again that they were too nearly exhausted 
to continue during another moment. 

Better stick at the job, for it must be done, an’ if 
so be you should provoke Mr. Sawtelle to get after 
you matters would be a good deal worse than they 
are now. The trouble with both you boys is that you 
don’t take exercise enough to keep you in good condi- 
tion, an’ when you’re called on for a trick like this it 
pulls you down mightily.” 

“ It’s rest instead of exercise that we’re needin’,” 
Sam cried angrily. “ Folks seem to think that we must 
keep on the run every minute of the day, an’ if there is 
a chance when we might draw a long breath some of 
the crowd are shoutin’ for us to go out fishin’ so’s 
Cap’in Tobi or the foxes can be fed.” 

It might be worse, lad, it might be worse,” Zenas 
said in a tone of pretended sympathy. You might 
have the old pirate here for a reg’lar boarder, an’ then 
I’m allowin’ you’d have to hump yourselves to keep 
the stock of rock cod from runnin’ low.” 

“ I’d like to know why he ain’t the same as a reg’lar 
boarder already,” Ernest cried. “ See what he’s got 
to do to that old drogher of his before she’ll be ready 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


139 

for gettin’ under way, an’ tell me how long it’ll take 
him an’ his two lobsters to finish the job? ” 

I’m willin’ to admit, Ernest, that he’s likely to be 
here till after Christmas if he’s any ways finicky 
about how she’s patched up,” Zenas replied with a 
laugh; “ but by January you can let up a bit on rock- 
cod fishin’ — Hello, there goes the tug! It must have 
cost a pretty penny to bring her down here for nothin’ 
except the trip to Seaview an’ the floatin’ of the butter 
tub. I only wish I had part of Mr. Sawtelle’s money 
that he’s throwin’ around so reckless! I’ll give my 
solemn word that you wouldn’t find me draggin’ boards 
up the hill this day nor any other, when it comes to 
that.” 

The chartered steamer went out of the harbor, her 
work so far as concerned Barren Island and those 
who dwelt on it, at an end, and Master Cushing an- 
nounced in a guarded tone to Paul that before an- 
other twenty- four hours had passed they would have 
orders to get across to Seaview as soon as possible. 
“ To-morrow or next day we’ll be headin’ for Pleasant 
Harbor, an’ John Ed will get the surprise of his life! ” 

By the time all the lumber had been dragged up to 
the hangar night had come, and Paul and Ned were so 
weary that they were willing to go without supper in 
order to crawl into their bunks ; but this Master Cush- 
ing would not permit. 

“ You must be in good condition to start out after 
John Ed the minute we get the word, an’ this goin’ 
without your meals ain’t the best way to keep in shape. 
If we ever get the dory from Cap’in Tobi, I’ll see that 


140 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


the cook fixes you up somethin’ extra that’ll make you 
forget you’re tired.” 

Then for perhaps the tenth time Zenas shouted at 
the full strength of his lungs, hoping to attract the at- 
tention of the schooner’s crew, failing to succeed until 
both Mr. Sawtelle and Mr. Simpson had come on deck 
and added their voices to his. 

Wa’al, do you think you must howl like the Bull , 
of Bashan in order to make me hear? ” Captain Tobi 
roared as he slowly showed himself in the companion- 
way of his craft. What are you makin’ sich a row 
about, Zenas Cushin’ ? ” 

‘‘ We’ve been yellin’ this last half hour, tryin’ ” 

“ Why not stop it for a spell, an’ give your throat 
a chance ? ” and the hearers understood that Captain 
Tobi was his old self once more now that he was in 
his own vessel, and that vessel afloat. 

We want to get out to the N era” Zenas screamed. 

‘‘Swim, then, you dunderin’ idjut! Do you think 
I’ve got nothin’ to do but run a ferry on your ac- 
count? ” 

“ Captain Tobi, it is necessary you send one of your 
men ashore with the dory,” Mr. Sawtelle said gravely, 
speaking in an ordinary tone. “ So long as we have 
but one tender between the two craft, both of us must 
suffer a little inconvenience.” 

“ The dory’ll be there in a shake,” the old sailor 
cried as if his one desire in life had been to send the 
craft ashore an hour before, and to his crew he 
screamed as if in a fury of rage, “ Why don’t you stir 
your stumps, you lazy sons of lobsters? How many 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


141 

times am I to tell you that somebody’s waitin’ to be 
put aboard the benzine boat ? ” 

‘‘ Now he’s tryin’ to shove the blame off on them 
imitation men,” Zenas muttered. '' He didn’t reckon 
that Mr. Sawtelle would hear what he said ’bout run- 
nin’ a ferry, an’ it’s made him jest a bit ashamed after 
all the money that has been spent in floatin’ his 
schooner. Anyway, I ain’t sorry that the old pirate 
kicked up a row, ’cause it’ll make the boss more keen 
for another boat.” 

When Zenas and the boys finally reached the Nera 
supper was already served, and Mr. Sawtelle said as 
the newcomers seated themselves at table : 

It required considerable time for you to get across 
from the shore.” 

** That’s what it did, sir, an’ the oftener we come 
the longer it’ll take. That old pirate in the butter tub 
is willin’ enough for other folks to do him a favor, but 
when it comes to turnin’ about he’s like a bear with a 
sore head. Wait till we have to come aboard two or 
three times in half a day, an’ then I’m thinkin’ there’ll 
be somethin’ of a row.” 

‘‘ We won’t give him many opportunities to be surly. 
Of course it is impossible for us to get on here with 
but a single tender, and it is also necessary that the 
Downs boys have a boat in order to catch fish while the 
weather is good. I propose that you go to Seaview on 
the next fair day, and buy at least two dories. Very 
likely Mr. Mansfield will have the stores he failed to 
deliver the other day, by the time you arrive, and they 
can be brought back, thus killing two birds with one 
stone.” 


142 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ We’ll be ready to start by daybreak to-morrow,” 
Master Cushing replied promptly, and Paul’s father 
added : 

“ Not unless the day is calm, with every prospect of 
fair weather for twenty-four hours. We must not 
take any risk of your being storm-bound there.” 

“ I’ll guarantee to bring the Hampton boat across 
in anythin’ less than a livin’ gale. She’s as seaworthy 
as that butter tub of Cap’in Tobi’s, an’ would stand up 
under heavier weather.” 

'' We won’t take any chances,” Mr. Simpson said de- 
cidedly, and straightway Master Cushing went on deck 
to see what were the indications for the morrow, Ned 
following him a moment later as he asked : 

Are you going to make a try for John Ed this 
trip?” 

“ Why not? ” 

“ I thought perhaps it might be better to let him get 
settled down in his new home, thinking he was safe 
from pursuit, than ” 

Look here, Ned, I’ve waited on that old scoundrel’s 
whims jest as long as is needed. If we hadn’t been so 
tender of him he’d be this minute where he couldn’t 
do any mischief. Things will go jest as I planned last 
night. There won’t be any bangin’ back when we get 
to Seaview; but it’ll be a case of runnin’ down to 
Pleasant Harbor an’ gatherin’ him in. We’ll bring 
back two dories all right, an’ with ’em will come what’ll 
make Cap’in Tobi turn blue, ’cause it’ll give him a ter- 
rible jar when he sees that we laid John Ed by the 
heels an’ didn’t make any fuss beforehand.” 


CHAPTER VIII 


PLEASANT HARBOR 

When Paul and Ned went into their cabin that night 
for the purpose of going to bed, there were many 
doubts in their minds as to the wisdom of Master 
Cushing’s scheme. If the morning should be fair and 
calm, they were to set out from the island, and, with 
Zenas in command, nothing save disaster to the Hamp- 
ton boat could prevent the party from attempting to 
make a prisoner of John Ed Bingham, if he yet re- 
mained in Pleasant Harbor. 

I’m not so certain that we’re doing right in letting 
Zenas run this thing secretly,” Paul whispered to his 
cousin, speaking thus cautiously lest his words be over- 
heard by the owners of the island, who were in the 
main saloon from which opened the sleeping cabins. 
‘‘ He has insisted on keeping his plans as concerned 
the old smuggler to himself on several occasions, and 

has come to grief each time ” 

'' Why not tell your father the whole scheme ? ” 

It wouldn’t be square to Zenas if we should do that 
without giving him fair warning. We have the same 
as promised to keep his secret, and yet I’m not certain 

but that we are doing wrong ” 

If Bingham is where Zenas says he is, and alone, 
143 


144 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


it should be a simple matter to bring him away/’ Ned 
suggested, and Paul added grimly : 

As you know, we have had him in seemingly just 
such a tight box more than once, and each time he has 
got the best of us.” 

'' But what could he do if we failed to get hold of 
him?” Ned asked. ''He’s alone, so Zenas says, in 
Bassett’s shanty at Pleasant Harbor, and if we fail in 
surprising him, it will only be a case of our coming 
back here beaten, as when the Neva returned from 
Apple Island. There will be no need even of our ex- 
plaining that we had any hope of catching the old 
smuggler — we needn’t say we went to Pleasant 
Harbor.” 

Paul was more than perplexed. Now that they were 
on the point of going in pursuit of Bingham, with 
nothing save the weather to cause a postponement, he 
was doubtful of the issue, although he could conceive 
of no reason why the venture should not be a success 
if all the information Zenas had gained was correct. 
It was what had happened in the past that caused him 
uneasiness, and he felt that his father and Mr. Saw- 
telle should be made acquainted with Master Cush- 
ing’s purpose. 

" It’s too late now to get a bug in your ear,” Ned 
whispered after a long pause. "We must go to bed 
as soon as possible, for Zenas will have us out before 
daybreak, of that you may be certain, and tired as we 
are, considerable sleep is really necessary. When we 
arrive at Seaview we’ll make it our business to find out 
if the word we have had regarding Bingham is correct. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


145 


and if there should be any little hitch in it we can re- 
fuse to go to Pleasant Harbor. Zenas wouldn’t dare go 
away in the Hampton boat, leaving us in the town, if 
we set ourselves resolutely against the scheme.” 

Paul found much to lighten his mental burden in 
these suggestions of Ned’s. He realized that it would 
not be too late, even after arriving at Seaview, to with- 
draw from the venture, and with this comforting as- 
surance he crept into the bunk, falling asleep within a 
very few seconds, not to awaken until Master Cushing, 
having entered the cabin softly, shook him into con- 
sciousness. 

The sun will rise in less than half an hour, an’ 
it’s time we were gettin’ breakfast, for we’ll be needin’ 
every minute of daylight.” 

What about the weather? ” Paul asked sleepily. 

“ There isn’t wind enough to stir a feather, an’ not 
a cloud in the sky. By movin’ softly we can get away 
without lettin’ your father an’ Mr. Sawtelle know 
we’ve gone.” 

But that won’t do at all,” and now Paul was wide 
awake with all the doubts of the previous night fresh 
in his mind. '' They are the ones who must say if 
we are to go; besides, Mr. Sawtelle may have other 
business for us to do in Seaview.” 

It was evident that, such precautions did not please 
Master Cushing; but he wisely refrained from making 
decided objections to the proposition, and after assur- 
ing himself Ned was awake, and that the boys would 
make their toilets without delay, he left the cabin. 

The cook, most likely urged by Zenas to make haste, 


146 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


had breakfast ready to serve when Paul and Ned came 
from their cabin, and while they were eating Master 
Cushing asked in a tone of irritation if the boys were 
still determined to have speech with the owners of 
the island before beginning the voyage. 

Most surely we are,” Paul replied in a positive 
tone, whereupon Master Cushing had an attack of 
what was very like the sulks, declaring that it was 
little less than folly to spend valuable time in such 
manner when there was really no necessity. 

Mr. Sawtelle is likely to stay in his bunk till seven 
or eight o’clock, an’ we’ll be coolin’ our heels here 
when we might be in Seaview makin’ ready for — for — 
for the rest of the voyage.” 

It is quite possible a heated discussion might have 
followed, for both Paul and Ned were determined to 
speak with the owners of the island before getting 
under way, while Zenas viewed the loitering as a wilful 
waste of valuable time. The entrance of Mr. Sawtelle 
himself changed the aspect of affairs decidedly, and 
Master Cushing’s face brightened as the gentleman 
said cheerily: 

“ Judging from the weather indications you are like 
to have an ideal day for your cruise, lads. You seem 
inclined to make an early start.” 

“We were only waiting to hear if you had any 
further commissions for us, sir,” Paul replied, and dur- 
ing just the merest fraction of time he was tempted 
to tell then and there that it was their intention to 
go in search of John Ed. 

He refrained from doing so, however, because of 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


H7 

believing it would be unfair to Zenas, and the owner 
of the Nera said as he seated himself at the table: 

‘‘ I do not think of anything more that we may need. 
Be careful to purchase good boats regardless of the 
price, and if it should chance that you cannot get more 
than one, bargain for a second craft to be delivered 
when next you go to the mainland. There is little 
need for me to caution you as to coming back im- 
mediately you have done the work laid out. No one 
can say when the wind may spring up, and we shall 
feel more contented in mind when you have returned.” 

Then if there’s nothin’ more to be said we’d better 
be off,” Zenas cried eagerly as he rose from the table. 
‘‘ I’ll see what can be done in the way of havin’ Cap’in 
Tobi’s imitation sailors bring their dory alongside.” 

When Master Cushing had gone on deck Paul had a 
good opportunity of acquainting Mr. Sawtelle with the 
proposition to pursue the old smuggler; but again he 
hesitated, and followed Ned on deck feeling decidedly 
uncomfortable in mind. 

Zenas was shouting at the full strength of his lungs 
to arouse the laggards on Captain Tobi’s schooner, and 
not until he had screamed until he was hoarse were his 
efforts rewarded. Then came a brief but heated con- 
versation between Master Cushing and the sailor who 
finally answered his hail, after which the intending 
voyagers were rowed across the harbor to where the 
Hampton boat was moored. 

Ten minutes later, with Paul at the motor and Zenas 
at the wheel, they wer-e sailing out of the harbor at full 
speed, the rays of the rising sun glinting the roof of 


148 . AIRSHIP CRUISING 

the hotel ’’ until it appeared to be covered with a 
sheet of gold. 

Yes, it’s a great day; but we ought’er been half- 
way to Seaview by now,” Master Cushing said in reply 
to Ned’s remark regarding the weather. “ I’m not 
sayin’ but that we’ve got time enough to do all that’s 
been laid out, yet it’s jest as well to have a leeway 
when there’s so much to be done. Say, it’ll be worth 
a month’s wages to hear Cap’in Tobi rave when we 
come back with John Ed as passenger ! The old pirate 
will be jest about wild ’cause he didn’t have sich an 
easy chance.” 

Perhaps it will be as well to wait awhile before 
counting positively on the ‘ easy chance,’ ” Paul replied 
grimly. ‘‘ If we had told father and Mr. Sawtelle 
what we intended to do, I wouldn’t bother about the 
possible outcome; but as it is we may find ourselves 
in a bad mix-up with no possibility of sending word 
back to the island.” 

Now, don’t get it into your head that we’ll slip up 
ever so little on this ’ere job,” Zenas said in a tone 
of triumph. If you boys don’t want to have a whole 
finger in the pie, you can stay aboard here when we 
get to the point, an’ I’ll go alone up to where John Ed 
will most likely be takin’ his ease. Then I’ll only have 
to show the revolver, for him to follow me like a tame 
kitten; he’s no fool, an’ has sense enough to know 
when he has come to the end of his rope.” 

It was useless to suggest to Zenas that his scheme 
might not work as smoothly as he fancied; he firmly 
believed all would go as he planned; nothing could 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


149 

have been said to change the picture as he had painted 
it in his mind. Paul kept his position at the motor, 
ill at ease; Ned, amidships, remained silent, striving to 
give himself up to the delight which should have been 
his while sailing swiftly over the glassy ocean, and 
Master Cushing alternately whistled and sang in loud 
notes of anticipated triumph. 

Never had the Hampton boat behaved better; a 
more perfect day for the voyage could not have been 
imagined, and within less than two hours the little 
craft was sailing into Seaview harbor. Then it was 
that Zenas said with an air of authority, counting him- 
self the acknowledged leader now that his portion of 
the work was so near at hand : 

“ One of you boys had better go up to Mansfield's 
an’ see to it he sends down the stores with a rush. I’ll 
’tend to buyin’ the dories, an’ you can set it down as a 
fact that the grass won’t grow under my feet.” 

Ned leaped on the pier as Paul shut off the motive 
power, and the Hampton had not yet been made fast 
properly when Zenas was walking at his best pace up 
the village street in search of some one who might have 
dories for sale. 

The boys set off for Mr. Mansfield’s shop, and, 
as on previous visits, it was impossible to transact any 
business until they had satisfied the curiosity of the 
shop-keeper and the usual throng of idlers as to what 
was being done at Barren Island. 

It was necessary to recount all the scenes attending 
the life saving from the wreck of the schooner yacht, 
and explain exactly how Captain Tobi’s craft had been 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


150 

stranded, as well as how she was launched again, after 
which Mr. Mansfield condescended to listen to the 
wants of his visitors. 

By this time he had a full supply of all that had been 
called for previously, and when he had promised to 
send the goods to the pier without loss of time, the 
boys retraced their steps to where the Hampton boat 
lay moored, finding there Master Cushing with a sin- 
gle dory. 

Only one boat to be had for love or money ; but 
Abel Dyer has promised to have another ready for us 
when we come agin,” Zenas reported. An’ now what 
about the stores? I s’pose Mansfield will be all day 
gettin’ that little jag of stuff down here. I’ll go an’ 
stir him up a bit, for there’s no sense in our wastin’ 
time here.” 

Zenas must have done considerable in the way of 
“ stirring up ” the shop-keeper, for within half an hour 
all the goods were at the pier, and Master Cushing was 
stowing them on board with such energy that in a com- 
paratively short space of time everything was in readi- 
ness for the return trip. 

‘‘Now we’ll run out of the harbor as if we were 
countin’ on headin’ straight for the island, an’ then 
pull around for Pleasant Harbor an’ John Ed! ” Zenas 
cried as he went to the helm when Ned cast off the 
hawsers. “ Send her ahead at her best pace, Paul, an’ 
within an hour we’ll be runnin’ for Silver Fox Farm 
with our passenger aboard ! ” 

Paul made no reply ; now that the venture was really 
to be made he was more disturbed in mind than ever, 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


151 

and doubts which had not before found lodgment in 
his mind, assailed him with such force that more than 
once was he inclined to declare that he would not have 
any part in such a venture. 

Then came the thoughts that, as Zenas had pictured 
it, the scheme could not well fail, and even though it 
did, there would be no disastrous outcome. If John 
Ed refused to accompany them under the persuasion of 
Master Cushing’s revolver, it would be simply a case 
of returning in disappointment to Barren Island. 

The boys had made private inquiries of Mr. Mans- 
field, and learned from that apparently reliable source 
that the old smuggler had really taken up his abode in 
Sam Bassett’s shanty with the avowed purpose of re- 
maining there all winter. 

The shop-keeper appeared quite positive that John 
Ed believed himself safe from pursuit, at least until 
spring had come again, and it really seemed, even to 
the doubting Paul, that Master Cushing would be able 
to do as he had planned; yet as he looked after the 
' motor to make certain it was running smoothly and 
well, the lad regretted that he and his cousin were tak- 
ing any part in the venture. 

Pleasant Harbor, as has been said, is situated five 
miles north of Seaview, and with the Hampton boat 
running better than ten miles an hour, it can be under- 
stood that this portion of the voyage was soon made. 

There’s the point, an’ you can see the top of Sam 
Bassett’s shanty jest above the scrub oaks, up there 
on that risin’ land,” Master Cushing said when they 
were come in view of their destination. We’ll be 


152 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


inside the small cove within five minutes, an’ now the 
question is whether you boys count on goin’ ashore 
with me, or if you’ll stay aboard till I’ve turned the 
trick? ” 

We’ll go with you,” Paul replied curtly. Having 
come thus far it would be foolish to hang back in the 
harness. You seem to be expecting that John Ed will 
be taken by surprise, and yet what’s to prevent him 
from having seen us ever since we rounded the point? ” 

He’ll think we’re fishermen ” 

Don’t you allow that an old fox like him will 
recognize this boat?” 

“ He won’t think of it, believin’ we’re shut in on 
Barren Island, an’ we’ll give him sich a jar as he’s 
never had.” 

Then Zenas motioned for the motor to be slowed 
down, and the Hampton boat glided softly into a 
narrow cove or rift on the east side of a small point 
which had much the appearance of an island, being 
cut off from the mainland by a stretch of water forty 
or fifty feet wide, on the surface of which, here and 
there, could be seen the tops of bushes and weeds. 

Now it was that Zenas worked rapidly with the 
intent of getting ashore before the proposed victim 
could make his way from the shanty to the cove. The 
anchor was dropped slowly that there might be no 
splashing of the water. The Hampton boat was 
swung by aid of an oar close into the land, and Master 
Cushing had no difficulty in stepping on to firm ground 
without wetting his feet. 

The boys, now thoroughly excited and beginning to 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


153 


believe that it would really be possible to make the 
capture, followed at the heels of the leader, who began 
to make his way through the stunted bushes to the 
shanty situated perhaps fifty yards from the water’s 
edge. 

Zenas moved stealthily, believing that even the 
slightest rustling of the foliage might give an alarm to 
the occupant of the shanty although seemingly he had 
not been disturbed by the chug-chug-chugging of the 
screw, which might have been heard distinctly while 
the Hampton boat was yet two miles away. The boys 
copied every movement of the leader, until they had 
arrived at the edge of a small clearing where a full 
view of the rude hut could be had. 

‘‘ Stay here an’ I’ll make a rush for the shanty,” 
Zenas whispered as he drew his revolver, making cer- 
tain it was in working order. 

Paul and Ned remained partially hidden by the 
bushes, hardly daring to breathe while Zenas ran 
swiftly to the door of the hut and kicked it open as 
he leveled his weapon, at the same time shouting: 

'' The game is up, John Ed. We’ve got you foul 
this time, an’ it won’t pay you to kick, for I’m ready 
to send six bullets into your body at the first show of 
resistance ” 

Then to the surprise of the boys Zenas lowered his 
weapon, took one step inside the building to where he 
could have a view of the interior, and then turned to 
face them, disappointment written on every line of his 
face. 

He ain’t here ! It must be that he saw us cornin’, 


154 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


for there’s a fire in the stove, an’ ’cordin’ to the look 
of things I’d say he’d jest begun to get dinner. It’s a 
case of runnin’ him down, for he can’t be far away, 
an’ this ’ere revolver will bring him to a halt mighty 
sudden if I get a sight of him.” 

It seemed necessary the boys should have a view of 
the interior of the shanty, although there was no 
reason why they should doubt the statement made by 
Zenas, and even the most hasty glance was sufficient 
to show that John Ed had not been absent from his 
nest many minutes. 

As Master Cushing had said, a fire was burning in 
the stove, and from the kettle on the top came a 
really savory odor. At one side were two roughly 
made bunks, one of which was partially filled with bed 
clothing; in the center of the room stood a small table, 
and near at hand two home-made chairs. A box served 
as cupboard, and when he peered in Paul saw that it 
was well filled with eatables. 

“ Come on ! ” Zenas said impatiently as the boys 
lingered to survey the tiny place in which the old 
smuggler had declared his intention of living during 
the winter. “ He’ll tumble to the fact that we’re here 
if we don’t make a move mighty soon, though I don’t 
know how he’d get away unless he should swim across 
the gut, which wouldn’t be an easy job ’cordin’ to the 
looks of them weeds an’ bushes, for a fellow’d get 
all tangled up in ’em.” 

Then Master Cushing began his man-hunt, followed 
as a matter of course by the boys, and no sleuth out 
of a yellow-covered story book could have conducted 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


155 

the work in a more approved fashion. He moved 
with the utmost caution, creeping at times on his hands 
and knees where the foliage was dense, and again glid- 
ing from one stunted oak to another like a shadow, 
holding his revolver ready for use all the while, much 
to the discomfort of Paul and Ned, who were in 
momentary fear that it would be accidentally dis- 
charged. 

Fortunately there were not more than five acres in 
this island-like point, otherwise the greater portion of 
the day might have been spent by Zenas, who was 
firmly convinced that their prey must be hidden close 
at hand. As it was, however, a full half hour passed 
while Master Cushing prowled around, and then there 
came to Paul’s ears the chug-chug-chugging of a 
motor. 

There’s another boat coming, and if friends of 
John Ed should be on board of her we might find our- 
selves in a pickle,” he whispered to his cousin, who was 
close at his heels, and Ned, suddenly starting for- 
ward without heed to the noise which might be caused 
by his rapid movements, shouted in a loud tone to 
Zenas : 

“ Get across to the shore ! John Ed is running away 
with the Hampton boat ! ” 

He wouldn’t dare do anythin’ like that,” Master 
Cushing cried angrily. ‘‘ Why couldn’t you have kept 
quiet a little longer, for I almost had my hands on 
him? ” 

“ Don’t make a fool of yourself ; but get down to 
the shore, quickly or it may be too late ! ” and Ned 


156 AIRSHIP CRUISING 

ran at full speed in the direction of where they had left 
the craft. 

Paul, doubting whether his cousin’s surmises were 
correct, but more than willing to put an end to the 
man-hunt in order that they might set off for Barren 
Island once more, followed at his best pace, and hav- 
ing finally emerged from the underbrush saw that 
which caused an exclamation of anger and dismay to 
burst from his lips. 

A full hundred yards from the shore was the 
Hampton boat speeding southward at full speed, with 
the lately-purchased dory towing astern, and John Ed 
Bingham at the wheel, looking backward now and then 
with a most disagreeably ugly expression on his face. 

“ Come back ! ” Paul screamed at the full strength 
of his lungs. “ Come back at once or you shall be 
arrested for stealing ! ” 

So far from being frightened by such a threat, John 
Ed deliberately slowed down the motor, and then 
wheeling about to face Paul, cried derisively : 

“ Take your time ’bout arrestin’ me, ’cause it’ll be 
quite a spell that you’ll be all by your lonesomes, with- 
out chance to jail anybody. Say, look after the beans 
I left stewin’ on the stove; it would go agin my grain 
mightily to have them burn even though I can’t stop 
to get my share of ’em.” 

Put that boat around, John Ed Bingham, or I’ll 
shoot you in your tracks ! ” Zenas shouted, hoarse with 
rage and panting for breath after his rapid running 
through the foliage. 

I reckon you think I’m mighty nigh scared out of 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


157 


my skin, eh? ” the old smuggler cried with a mocking 
laugh. “ Believe you can make me come back jest on 
account of your havin’ that toy gun, eh? ” 

ril give you ten seconds in which to make up your 
mind, an’ then I’ll fire if you ain’t headin’ for this 
cove.” 

“If time is of any account, which I reckon it ain’t, 
seein’s how you’ll have plenty of it on your hands 
before gettin’ a chance to leave my shanty, you needn’t 
wait one little second, ’cause I ain’t cornin’ back unless 
it might be that I thought you wasn’t havin’ it tough 
enough, an’ I wanted to stir you up a bit.” 

Without further warning Zenas began to discharge 
the chambers of his weapon, and being so thoroughly 
in a rage that he failed of seeing that the bullets 
struck the water two or three yards short of the boat. 

“Doin’ considerable damage, ain’t yer?” Bingham 
cried derisively. “ Powder an’ shot must be plentiful 
over on Barren Island. Keep on shootin’ if you’re 
gettin’ any fun out of it; an’ even though you are so 
haired-up try in’ to shed the blood of an innocent man 
like me. I’ll do you a good turn by advisin’ you not 
to think you can swim across the gut ; it can’t be done 
owin’ to the weeds an’ bushes. Any word you want 
to send Billy Mansfield? I’m allowin’ to run inter 
Seaview for a bit, that is, if you don’t insist on my 
stayin’ here too long.” 

Master Cushing was literally speechless with rage. 
He had emptied all the chambers of his revolver and 
had no more cartridges, although it would have done 
him no good and John Ed little harm if he had been 


158 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


well supplied with ammunition. He paced to and fro 
on the muddy shore shaking his fist in the direction 
of the old smuggler, and striving in vain to utter the 
threats which trembled on his quivering lips. 

Be careful, Zenas, or you’ll get excited, which is 
heatin’ for the blood. Don’t think I ain’t thankin’ you 
for the use of this ’ere boat; but you seem to have got 
inter the habit of supplyin’ me with a craft jest when 
I’m needin’ one. Any word to Billy Mansfield? ” 

“What’s the sense in bandying words with him? ” 
Paul said as he seized Master Cushing by the arm, thus 
forcing him to a standstill. “ You’re doing no good 
by threatening, and only pleasing him. We’re wholly 
to blame for being in this muddle, and may as well 
make the best of it.” 

“ I’d like to know where you find any ‘ best ’ ? ” 
Zenas said bitterly, having at last recovered the use of 
his tongue. “ That miserable old scoundrel counts 
on leavin’ us here, an’ what’s worse he’s got with him 
all the supplies we took in at Seaview ! ” 

“Of course he has, and there’s nothing you can say 
to change the situation. It’s all our fault, I tell you. 
We had no business to think of coming without letting 
father know what we had in mind, and even when we 
got here, it was the act of simpletons to stay on shore 
leaving the Hampton boat unguarded. If we hadn’t 
been the dumbest kind of boneheads we’d have realized 
that he could hear the thumping of our screw before 
we’d got within two miles of this place. A man like 
him would be on the alert when he heard a power-boat 
coming toward the point.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


159 


** Got it all doped out, have yer ? ” Bingham cried as 
he lighted his pipe and seated himself on the port rail 
as if it was his purpose to make a long stay. Can’t 
he get it through his head that John Ed Bingham ain’t 
often caught asleep?” 

“ I’ll get somethin’ through your head that’ll put an 
end to your funny business ! ” Zenas cried, escaping 
from Paul’s grasp and running to the water’s edge. 
** You’ve about come to the end of your rope, you 
old scoundrel, an’ this is the last trick you’ll have a 
chance to play in this part of the country ! ” 

‘‘ Well, now, ain’t that a shame,” Bingham cried in 
mock sorrow. ‘‘ So I’m to be cut off in the flower of 
my youth, eh, an’ you’re to do the cuttin’? It’s too 
bad, too bad! I’m allowin’, though, that I’m takin’ 
quite a hand in the terrible work jest about this time, 
eh? Think it over, Zenas Cushin’ — you’ll have plenty 
of time before leavin’ that dear old shanty of mine 
which I jest the same as bought from Sam Bassett. 
When you’ve turned this an’ that in your mind, Zenas, 
you may come to believe that there’s a good big piece 
of my rope left.” 

When Master Cushing would have made an in- 
temperate reply to these mocking words, Paul clutched 
him by the arm once more, leading him a short dis- 
tance toward the shanty as he said imploringly : 

Please don’t do exactly as that old smuggler wants. 
You’re making him perfectly happy by losing your 

temper so completely ” 

‘‘How can I help it?” Master Cushing wailed. 
“ Here we are shut up on what’s the same as an island. 


i6o AIRSHIP CRUISING 

in case I can’t swim across, an’ I’ve been showin’ my- 
self a bloomin’ idjut by chucklin’ over what I’d do to 
that old villain. I’m more kinds of a fool than there 
are hairs on my head ! ” 

I’m perfectly willing to agree that we’ve all acted 
foolishly in every way, and now we must pay the price. 
There’s no hope Bingham will take us oflf, and the 
sooner he gets out of my sight the better chance I’ll 
have of reconciling myself to the result of my own 
folly.” 

It’s me, not you, who is to blame for all this ” 

“ I did my full share by not insisting that father 
and Mr. Sawtelle should be told of what we intended to 
do, and again in leaving the boat, to follow you to the 
shanty.” 

“ What are you havin’ over there ? Some kind of 
a praise meetin’ because you happened to come across 
your old friend, John Ed? ” Bingham cried jeeringly, 
and it was with difficulty that Paul could prevent Zenas 
from making reply. 

Again and again the old smuggler shouted, for no 
other purpose than to provoke Master Cushing to 
speech, and after a time, finding that Zenas was bent 
on following good advice, he cried: 

“ Well, take care of yourselves, an’ see to it that the 
beans don’t burn! If I have time, after payin’ my 
respects to. that fat Cap’in Tobi, it may be I’ll report 
havin’ seen you at anchor down this way. Remember, 
I’m lendin’ you my outfit in the shanty, an’ expect that 
you’ll see it don’t come to any harm.” 

Then, after waiting a short time in the hope of 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM i6i 

hearing some reply, John Ed Bingham, smuggler, ex- 
convict and all-around bad man, started the motor, the 
Hampton boat gliding swiftly away over the calm 
waters, leaving behind her rightful owners and crew 
marooned on a tiny point that made out from the 
southerly side of Pleasant Harbor. 

From the time it was first learned that John Ed 
had taken possession of their craft, thus making virtual 
prisoners of the party, Ned had not spoken. He stood 
where he had halted on first becoming aware of the 
unpleasant fact, silent and motionless as a statue, gaz- 
ing at the Hampton boat and her new master ; but when 
she sailed away so swiftly and was nearly lost to view 
in the distance, he turned sharply around to face Zenas 
as he said in a tremulous tone: 

“ So this is what has come of your making Bingham 
follow you as meek as any lamb? This is what we get 
for being such fools as to hold our tongues at Barren 
Island, when it was my duty as well as that of Paul, 
to explain where we were going ? Now, how are we to 
get away, and what is to become of the goods we took 
from Seaview? ” 

'' That’s right; rub it in, Ned, an’ you can’t rub any 
too hard to suit me, or to make it plain that there isn’t 
a bigger fool on this ’ere coast. Oh, me, oh, my! 
what a chance Cap’in Tobi’ll have to rough into me, 
an’ I’ll deserve every nasty word ! ” 

But how are we to get away? ” 

'' Walk to Seaview, that’s what we’ll do ! ” Master 
Cushing cried suddenly as if he had but just come to 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


162 

realize that there was a possible means of escape. 

ril swim across that gut, or drown myself! ” 

“ Don’t continue being a fool by doing rash things,” 
Paul cried sternly. It is barely possible that you may 
succeed in getting across, and of course we must try 
it rather than stay here meekly; but it will be done 
cautiously, and in such a way that we can’t endanger 
our lives.” 

Master Cushing was throwing off his clothing as 
Paul spoke, and now he ran swiftly to the brink of that 
narrow gut which separated the point from the 
mainland, and plunged in. Half-wading, half-swim- 
ming, he advanced no more than five yards when 
his feet became entangled in the long weeds, 
throwing him on his face in the water, where he 
floundered and struggled with no other effect than to 
give the weeds a stronger hold upon his limbs. Then 
he remained motionless, his head completely sub- 
merged, and Ned shouted wildly as he ran into the 
treacherous water-way fully clad as he was : 

Zenas is drowning I Come quick 1 Don’t stop to 
undress ! ” 

There was no time to make preparations for the 
effort to save life, and Paul understood only too well 
that every second was precious, therefore he had no 
hesitation in following his cousin regardless of the pos- 
sible danger. 

That which now ensued is difficult to describe. It 
seemed odd that the passage of the narrow gut should 
be beset with danger, and yet before Ned had taken 
two steps he found that every movement was hampered 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 163 

by the weeds and bushes which threatened to overturn 
him even as they had Zenas. 

It was a veritable struggle for life, and before it 
came to an end both lads believed Master Cushing 
would be drowned despite all their efforts. 

Their labors were finally successful, however, and 
Zenas was dragged out on firm land, wholly uncon- 
scious, and seemingly dead. Fortunate indeed was it 
for Master Cushing that Paul’s father had spent no 
little time in the past teaching him what first aid to 
the drowning consisted of, and after ten minutes’ work 
the marooned lads had the intense satisfaction of see- 
ing Zenas open his eyes. 

It’s a case now of going up to the shanty, where 
we can dry our clothing, for this isn’t summer 
weather,” Paul said in a tone of authority. There’ll 
be no further attempt to cross the gut this day.” 

Zenas made no protest, but meekly, as meekly as he 
had once fancied Bingham would follow him when 
the revolver was displayed, he followed Paul to the 
shanty Sam Bassett had built. 


CHAPTER IX 


MAROONED 

In the shanty which John Ed Bingham had so 
suddenly and so unexpectedly abandoned, the fire was 
burning merrily, and the beans, to which the old 
smuggler had referred in such anxious tones, were 
bubbling and dancing in the boiling water in a way 
that would have gone far toward making the place 
seem home-like but for the mental troubles of Zenas 
and the boys. 

The heat of the one small room was most grateful 
after the three had been exposed to the chilling wind 
while their clothing was saturated with water, and all 
hugged the stove at once, no one speaking until Paul 
bethought himself of the precautions which should be 
taken if they would ward off possible sickness. 

“ We mustn’t sit here in these wet clothes,” he said 
decidedly and with an air of leadership. “ Pll fill 
the stove with wood, and then it’s a case of using 
Bingham’s blankets while we hang the garments near 
the stove.” 

I’d rather take cold than wrap myself in such 
things as those,” Ned said with a certain gesture of 
repulsion as he glanced at the dirty, greasy bed cover- 
ings. “ I don’t believe they have ever been washed.” 

164 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


165 

It makes no difference whether they have or not, 
you will do as I say. It’s our business, after the 
foolish blunder we made, to do everything within our 
power to be in condition to get away from this place 
at the first opportunity, and it couldn’t be done if one 
or all of us were sick.” 

As if to show that he no longer claimed to be the 
leader of the party, but recognized Paul’s right to take 
command. Master Cushing undressed, covered himself 
with one of the disagreeable-looking blankets, and 
hung his clothing where it might be dried. 

The other two, Ned looking as if he was submitting 
to some extremely painful operation, followed his ex- 
ample, and three very mournful appearing persons 
crouched in front of the small stove indulging, most 
likely, in thoughts of a very disagreeable nature. 

Paul soon came to understand that if each fellow 
gave full sway to the speculations which were of neces- 
sity provoked by the situation much distress of mind 
would ensue, while the conditions would remain un- 
changed if not rendered more unendurable, therefore 
as a means of changing the current of thought he said : 

Look here, fellows, what has happened can’t be 
changed, no matter how long we brood over it. We 
must make up our minds that John Ed turned the 
tables on us most beautifully, and instead of chewing 
over that fact, try to find some way out of the hobble.” 

“If we can’t swim across the gut the only chance 
we’ve got of gettin’ away from this bloomin’ place is by 
hailin’ any craft that comes this way,” Zenas muttered, 
and Paul said cheerily : 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


1 66 

‘‘ That sounds all right, and as soon as we’re in con- 
dition to do so one or the other must remain on watch 
during every hour of daylight I suppose, following the 
example of others who have been marooned. We 
ought to make ready something with which to signal, 
such as a pile of brush that can be set on fire, or a 
makeshift for a flag. That shall be our first work. 
Now, let’s see how the old smuggler outfitted himself 
in the way of provisions, for it is more than possible 
that we shall be here two or three days.” 

“ And in the meanwhile Bingham can feast on the 
stores we took from Seaview ! ” Ned cried bitterly, 
and Zenas added: 

That ain’t givin’ me half so much to worry about, 
as is matters on Barren Island. The folks there will 
begin to look for us about this time, an’ when we fail 
to show up at sunset, can’t help believin’ that some 
accident has happened. Then what ? The Nera won’t 
be in condition to put to sea for three or four days, 
and they’ve got no small boat.” 

It shouldn’t take very long to put Captain Tobi’s 
schooner in trim, providing all hands turned to on 
her,” Paul suggested; “ but even when it becomes pos- 
sible for them to begin a search, how will it be known 
where to start in? The people at Seaview can’t give 
any information, unless Mr. Mansfield should suspect, 
because of my questioning him about John Ed, that we 
might have come this way; the trouble with that part 
of the business is that we did all we could to make them 
think we had laid a direct course for the island.” 

“ An’ that was another of my smart tricks ! ” Zenas 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 167 

wailed. It does seem as if I tried mighty hard to 
prove that I’m the biggest idjut in this world ! ” 

“ There’s no sense in kicking yourself,” Paul cried, 
striving in vain to speak in a cheery tone. There 
must be some way in which our people can get some 
trace of the Hampton boat. If they should learn that 
John Ed had possession of her it would be reasonably 
easy to guess what had happened.” 

That old villain will keep out of sight; he’s too 
deep for our crowd — we’ve proved that he’s got me 
bested,” and a deep sigh escaped from Master Cush- 
ing’s lips. 

“ It’s a long lane that has xio turning, and we’ll hope 
that Bingham muddles matters in some way that shall 
let our people know wnere we are. It isn’t possible 
that we can remain h< re very long without being dis- 
covered, when we’re io near the mainland and a town 

the size of Seaview. If Captain Tobi’s schooner ” 

** Don’t ! Don’t ! ” Zenas groaned. It fair makes 
me wild to think tlat it is possible the old pirate may 
be the one to take is off ! How he would crow ! I’d 
rather be in jail thm forced to stay aboard that butter 
tub of his while me was crawlin’ from here to Barren 
Island, for he’d never let his tongue have a minute’s 
rest.” 

Bette-^ listen to the worst he can say, than stay in 
this plate,” and Ned gave a vicious push to the kettle 
of bftins, at the expense of burning his fingers quite 
seve^’ely. 

T'aul realized that his purpose of changing the cur- 
rent of thought was not being forwarded by such con- 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


1 68 

versation, and at once set about making an examination 
of the contents of the shanty, calling upon the others 
to join him in the search. It was soon found that they 
were in no danger of actual starvation even though 
forced to remain where they were during several days. 
Bingham had laid in a fairly good supply of potatoes, 
flour, salt pork, beans, coffee, and such articles as went 
to make up a frugal fare, and Paul announced with a 
poor attempt at laughing: 

We have got coffee without milk or sugar; flour 
which must be made into bread before we can use it, 
and potatoes with salt which we can contrive to cook 
even though we’re not ei^perts at such work,” and, 
without thinking that he was'bringing his companions 
back to the same condition of rn^d from which he had 
proposed to arouse them, he addeM, “ I’d give the whole 
lay-out, taking the chances of staging, if I could have 
the use of a wireless telegraph keyVor half an hour! ” 

By the time John Ed’s outfit hati been thoroughly 
overhauled, and the boys knew exaittly what they had 
in the way of necessities, the clothing was sufficiently 
dry to admit of its being used, and ^enas suggested 
that he be the one to prepare signals for use whenever 
a craft of any kind came within hailing\ distance. 

After what’s happened it don’t stand to reason that 
I’m to be trusted even with the work of pilin’ up brush 
so it can be set on fire quickly; but I sure am gettin’ 
a lesson on fool work, an’ it may be I can contriv>e to 
exercise common-sense a few minutes at a time.” 

John Ed had taken care to provide himself with a 
serviceable ax, and armed with this Zenas went into 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 169 

the open air looking as disconsolate as a fellow well 
could look. Ned followed because there was nothing 
better he could do at the time, while Paul, unwilling to 
remain in the shanty where were many disagreeable 
odors, when it was not absolutely necessary, made a 
complete circuit of the point which was to them a 
prison. 

When night came the little company were forced to 
seek shelter in Bingham’s winter home, and Paul took 
it upon himself to act as cook, by boiling potatoes, 
frying salt pork and making coffee; but his com- 
panions were too thoroughly dispirited to be sensible 
of hunger, and the amount of food consumed was 
sadly disproportionate to the labor required in prepar- 
ing it. 

Fortunately sleep came to the relief of the marooned 
ones at an early hour, and despite their forlorn con- 
dition all hands slept soundly if not comfortably until 
daybreak, when Zenas hastened out of doors to stand 
watch for a friendly craft. 

“ Do you think there’s any chance we may be 
taken off to-day?” Ned asked in a mournful tone as 
Paul set about building a fire, for the frost had 
found its way into every nook and corner of the 
shanty. 

'‘Of course there’s a chance; but I don’t see very 
much hope, Ned. We must make up our minds to 
stay here till our own people come in search of us, 
and there’s little possibility they can do that before to- 
morrow because of the work to be done in patching 
up either Captain Tobi’s schooner or the Mermaid/' 


170 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


‘‘ I just can't stay here another day,” Ned wailed, 
and Paul said in a tone of reproof : 

You’re only making matters worse by dwelling 
upon our discomforts and troubles. You’re hound to 
stay until we can be taken off, and the sooner you 
resign yourself to the inevitable the sooner a goodly 
part of the disagreeables will vanish. Think of how 
much we have for which to be thankful.” 

“ I’ll give in that you’re a wise one if you can point 
oiit anything in our favor.” 

“ That’s easy. In the first place the weather is hold- 
ing good; if a storm came up, such as we have every 
reason to look for at this time of year, there would be 
no hope that any kind of a craft could come this way. 
Then again, no one would put to sea searching for us 
from Barren Island, if the wind blew a gale. We’ve 
got plenty of food, such as it is, and a shelter that 
protects us from the cold. We might be very much 
worse off, and that you must take into consideration 
when you’re tempted to give up to despair.” 

Ned went out to join Zenas as a means of occupying 
his mind, and again Paul played the part of cook, al- 
though he was far from being skillful in such matters. 
This time real hunger drove his companions to testing 
the results of his labors, and even the odor from the 
beans, which had not been removed from the stove, 
was welcome to their nostrils. 

Zenas reported when he came to the shanty for 
breakfast, that there was nothing in the shape of a 
vessel to be seen ; he had gathered two stacks of brush- 
wood ready for lighting, and proposed to use his shirt 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


171 

as a flag of distress whenever any craft came in 
sight. 

More than this could not be done in the way of 
preparing to attract attention, and when Paul and Ned 
had washed the battered tin dishes and cleaned the 
interior of the shanty to the best of their ability, time 
began to hang so heavily on their hands that Master 
Cushing proposed to make one more attempt at swim- 
ming across the gut. To this, however, Paul refused 
his permission, and Zenas in his humility, recognizing 
the lad as in command of the party at least while they 
were marooned, submitted to the decision, the more 
readily perhaps because he realized that any such at- 
tempt would be a failure in addition to being attended 
with great danger. 

The day passed slowly and drearily. Once a sail 
was sighted far away in the distance ; but there was no 
possibility of hailing her, and when night came the 
mournful ones had good reason for believing that their 
whereabouts yet remained a secret from those who 
would have brought succor. 

On this second night they did not sleep so soundly; 
Zenas was so restless that it was only by taking fre- 
quent walks in the open air when he should have been 
in his bunk, that he could assume a semblance of 
patience. 

At midnight even this poor relief was denied 
him, for then a light, misty rain began to fall, and 
his exclamations of disappointment and anger were 
sufficient to arouse the lads from their fitful slum- 
ber. 


172 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


‘‘ There’ll be no craft of any kind along the coast 
in the mornin’, an’ we can count on bein’ here another 
day! ” he exclaimed in despair, and Paul spent a full 
hour trying in vain to arouse him from the despondent 
mood into which he had fallen. 

When another day had dawned the wind was driv- 
ing in from the eastward, searching out every crevice in 
the shanty, and the disconsolate ones could do no more 
than keep the fire burning brightly and remain inside 
the illy-ventilated building. Even Paul was unable to 
cheer his comrades because of the heaviness of his own 
heart, and the long day was spent in vain regrets that 
they had not acted differently both before and after 
leaving Barren Island. 

Then came the fourth day of their imprisonment. 
The sun rose with not a cloud in the sky, and the 
wind blowing gently from the westward, as Zenas an- 
nounced joyously when he ventured out at an early 
hour before his companions were fully awake. 

This is just the kind of a breeze the fishermen 
need, an’ we should be able to bring some craft inshore. 
I’ll whittle plenty of shavin’s so we can start a smoke 
quickly, an’ hang out my shirt half-mast high on a 
pole.” 

The boys began to believe that their time of im- 
prisonment might be near a close, and every member 
of the little company kept sharp watch over the sur- 
rounding waters, growing discouraged, however, when 
at noon nothing cheering had been seen. 

It was nearly three o’clock in the afternoon before 
they had the first glimpse of a sail, and then all made 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


173 

out a small schooner seemingly on a course that would 
bring her within hailing distance. 

On the instant Zenas ran up his shirt on the apology 
for a flag-staff which he had set on the shore, and, 
literally trembling with excitement and feverish 
hope, Paul and Ned stood ready to fire the piles 
of brushwood when the vessel was sufficiently near 
for those on board to see and be attracted by the 
smoke. 

Straight as a line could be drawn the schooner ap- 
proached the point as if to run ashore at that particular 
spot where the boys had gathered in anxious ex- 
pectancy, and Ned cried in a joyous tone: 

“ She’s coming near enough for us to hail her; but 
I suppose we had better start the fires.” 

‘‘ Go ahead with yours,” Paul replied as he held a 
lighted match to the inflammable material that had 
been gathered at the base of the stack of brush of 
which he had taken charge, and just as the flames 
began to mount to the sky, wafted slightly seaward 
by the light breeze. Master Cushing cried with what 
was very like a groan of distress : 

If havin’ to bunk in that miserable shanty all this 
time hasn’t been enough to pay us out for makin’ fools 
of ourselves, we’ll get it hot in a mighty short time! 
There was no need of startin’ the fires, for that’s 
Cap’in Tobi’s schooner, an’ she’s makin’ a bee line for 
this point. In some way the old pirate has found 
out exactly where we are, an’ now we’re bound to 
stand all the fun he can poke at us ! ” 

I’m willing to take everything he may say, and 


174 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


look pleasant all the while, for the sake of getting 
away from this place,” Paul cried joyously as he ran 
to the water’s edge and stood there waving his hands 
in welcome to the on-coming craft, even though she 
was not yet near enough for those on board to make 
out what he was doing. 

“Are you certain it’s Captain Tobi’s vessel?” Ned 
asked a moment later when the schooner was allowed 
to fall off ever so slightly, as if her course was about 
to be changed, and Master Cushing wailed : 

“ There’s no chance for a mistake, however much I 
wish there might be. There’s the same old patch on the 
foresail, an’ by lookin’ sharp you’ll see that some of 
her head riggin’ is new. I’d like to know how it hap- 
pens he’s so cock-sure that this is the place he wanted 
to find?” 

“ It stands to reason that when he got ready to 
hunt for us, his first stop would be at Seaview, and 
once there he’d consult with Mr. Mansfield, who would 
tell him that Ned and I asked a good many questions 
about John Ed. After that it wouldn’t need very much 
in the way of brains to guess that the old smuggler 
might have played us a trick.” 

“ An’ of course that old pirate spread it all over 
Seaview that I’d started out to catch John Ed an’ got 
done up,” Zenas said with a deep groan as he threw 
himself on the damp earth, covering his face with his 
hands as if to shut out all view of the succoring craft 
with her fat and noisy commander. 

Half an hour later the “ butter tub ” was hove-to off 
the point, and Captain Tobi shouted in a hurricane note 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


175 

which to the ears of the boys had a ring of pleasurable 
triumph : 

Ahoy on shore ! What are you lads doin’ down 
here on John Ed’s stampin’ ground? Where’s the 
Hampton boat ? ” 

How did you know where to find us ? ” Paul cried 
after waiting a few seconds in the belief that Zenas 
would answer the hail. 

'' How’d I know ? Don’t you allow that Cap’in 
Tobi has got a grain of common-sense? I haven’t 
knocked ’round this ’ere coast these forty years not 
to know that two an’ two make four. So Zenas Cushin’ 
counted that he was goin’ to nab John Ed, eh? An’ 
he found that the old fox was too much for him, 
eh?” 

The same as you did on Barren Island, and again 
when you believed he was snug in your schooner’s 
hold,” Paul replied, irritated because Captain Tobi re- 
mained hove-to without making any move toward 
sending a boat ashore. 

“ Them little matters are what you might call ac- 
cidents,” the old sailor roared, so thoroughly well 
pleased at thus learning of Master Cushing’s disagree- 
able mistake that he failed of being angry when his 
own discomfiture was thus referred to. If I’d come 
down here countin’ to lay John Ed by the heels you 
can set it down as a fact that he wouldn’t have had a 
chance to sneak off with my boat an’ her cargo. Per- 
haps Zenas Cushin’ will come to understand pretty 
soon that he ain’t more’n a quarter part as smart as he 
thinks he is,” 


176 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Did you come down here to take us off, or only 
to be funny at our expense? ” Ned cried angrily. 

“ Why bless your soul, my son, Fm what you might 
call the rescuin’ party. When Mr. Sawtelle got kind’er 
fussed ’cause you smuggler hunters didn’t come back, 
he says to me, says he, ‘ Cap’in Tobi, you’re the only 
one we can lean on in this tryin’ time, an’ you must 
rescue the boys.’ Then I says to him, says I, ‘ Lean 
on me all you want’er, an’ I’ll hold you up, to say 
nothin’ of bringin’ the children out from the hole they 
got inter through Zenas Cushin’s pig-headedness,’ 
’cause, you see, I knowed as well as if I’d been told, 
that this was another case of where Zenas had got inter 
trouble through thinkin’ he was smarter than John 
Ed. That old villain yet owes me for the Zoe, but I’m 
willin’ to admit that he’s no slouch when it comes to 
playin’ ” 

Are you intending to send a boat ashore, or do 
you count on staying where you are to rough into us ? ” 
Ned cried angrily, and one might have thought the old 
sailor’s heart had suddenly been wounded, so decided 
was the change in his tones to reproachful cadence. 

Me roughin’ inter you, lads ? How’d you ever get 
that idee in your head? I jest nat’rally thought you’d 
want to hear all the news, seein’s you’ve been away 
from Barren Island so long, an’ counted on tellin’ all 
I knew before spendin’ time in sendin’ the dory across. 
I s’pose you know that John Ed stopped in Seaview 
long enough to tell Billy Mansfield where you were. 
He allows that perhaps he’ll send the Hampton boat 
back in case he comes across a boat that he likes better. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


177 


Seems as if he was afraid you might claim he’d stole 
your craft. I declare for it, if that old smuggler would 
pay me what he owes on account of the Zoe, I’d feel 
like admittin’ that he’d shown himself to be quite con- 
siderable of a man, although it don’t need any very 
hefty person to get ahead of sich as Zenas Cushin’.” 

Why don’t you send the dory ashore?” Ned 
screamed in a rage. '‘If Mr. Sawtelle sent you out 
after us it’s time you attended to your business, instead 
of howling so much.” 

“ I’m sorry, lad,” and Captain Tobi shook his head 
mournfully; “but it does really seem as if you was 
gettin’ jest as bad as Zenas Cushin’. If it hadn’t been 
that I could see your face. I’d allow it was him yellin’. 
I don’t reckon there’s any reason why you couldn’t tell 
me, seein’s I’m the only one who’s come to help you 
out of the hole, how it was John Ed worked the trick. 
Did Zenas get the idee that he could take the old fox 
single-handed same’s I did down to Apple Island ? ” 

“ Look here. Captain Tobi,” and now Paul spoke 
sternly, “ if you want to hear anything from us it will 
be necessary to send the dory ashore and then make 
sail without delay for Barren Island. We positively 
refuse to take part in any conversation while you’re 
lying hove-to and we here on the island. This isn’t 
a fitting time for you to work out an old grudge on 
Zenas, and I’m not certain I hadn’t rather stay here a 
day or two longer, than receive help from you if it is 
to have as accompaniment all the witty things you can 
bring to mind concerning John Ed and what he has 
done. It would be well for you to remember that the 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


178 

old smuggler has turned the tables on you more than 
once, and we didn’t spend our time trying to hair you 
up after it was all over.” 

“ Wa’al there, lad, I didn’t have an idee you could 
be so touchy ! Of course I’ll send the dory ashore, an’ 
do all I can to make things pleasant after you come 
aboard.” 

Then Captain Tobi roared at his two forlorn-looking 
sailors, as if they alone were at fault because the dory 
had not been sent to the aid of those who had been 
marooned, and all the while the men were pulling to 
the shore he seemed to think it necessary he should 
criticise their every movement. 

“ Don’t you lubbers know how to row a boat? Sit 
up straight, you Mose, so’s folks will think you’ve 
really got a bone in your back. Keep stroke, an’ 
don’t dig your oars so deep ! Bear a hand, sogers, for 
them victims of John Ed’s must be pretty well worn 
out with stoppin’ here so long an’ taken his leavin’s.” 

Zenas had not spoken from the moment it was 
known to a certainty that Captain Tobi’s craft was ap- 
proaching. He had remained at full length on the 
ground, his eyes covered with his hands; but as the 
splashing of the water told that the dory was nearing 
the shore, he half rose to his feet as he whispered 
hoarsely to Paul : 

It’s lucky for that old pirate that I wasted all my 
cartridges on John Ed, else I really believe I’d shoot 
him! An’ to think that we’ll have to take the same 
kind of guff from him till that butter tub makes Barren 
Island! ” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


179 


“ There’s no help for it, Zenas,” Paul replied sooth- 
ingly. “ We’ve got to take our medicine because of 
having been the most foolish kind of idiots, and he 
can’t howl forever; the voyage must come to an end 
finally. Keep your temper, and above all don’t answer 
him, no matter how many mean things he may say.” 

I’ll hold my tongue jest as long as possible, an’ 
then if it can’t be helped I’ll let out on him in a way 
that he won’t be likely to forget.” 

Which would be very foolish, Zenas. He has 
good cause to crow in his own fashion, and by holding 
our tongues we shall be depriving him of a goodly 
share of sport.” 

By this time the bow of the dory was on the shore, 
and Ned scrambled aboard without heed to his com- 
panions, while Zenas and Paul followed more slowly, 
whereupon Captain Tobi cried solicitously: 

Anythin’ the matter with Zenas Cushin’ that 
makes him hump up so bad? I hope John Ed didn’t 
get to do him any harm ; but he ought’er have remem- 
bered that it takes a real man to tackle sich as the old 
smuggler — imitation sailors are apt to get the worst 
of it.” 

Zenas succeeded in holding his peace, but that it was 
difficult for him to do so could be seen by the deep 
flush on his cheeks and his clenched hands. Ned and 
Paul had made up their minds that it would be abso- 
lutely necessary, if they wished to return to. Barren 
Island, to bear with whatever the old sailor might 
please to say, therefore they took the tongue-lashing 
as a sort of merited punishment, soothing themselves 


i8o 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


by looking forward to the time when they could leave 
the schooner to take refuge aboard the Nera. 

When the dory was alongside once more Captain 
Tobi received them with an exaggeration of politeness 
that would have seemed comical if they had not had 
great cause for sorrow. He stood by the rail, hat in 
hand, urging again and again that they be careful how 
they came aboard because after so long a stay ashore 
it was only reasonable to suppose they would be clumsy 
on the water. 

I don’t reckon you’d be willin’ for me to have a 
squint at your boardin’ place, eh? ” he asked when all 
three had embarked. I’d like to make certain you 
didn’t miss the Nera an’ sich finicky grub as you had 
aboard her.” 

It’s for you to say whether you shall go ashore or 
not. The hut formerly occupied by the man who yet 
owes you for the Zoe, and who has made it extremely 
disagreeable for you more than once, is there ready to 
be inspected,” and Paul bowed profoundly to match 
the mock politeness of the old sailor. “ We are hoping 
you won’t stay overly long, for after our absence we 
are eager to get back to Barren Island as soon as pos- 
sible.” 

** You can take your solemn ’davy that I won’t stay 
as long as you did,” the fat man said with a greasy 
laugh as he clambered over the rail with no little diffi- 
culty owing to his enormous size. “ I’ll jest take a 
look around so’s to get some idee of the jolly time you 
lads had while I was strainin’ every nerve to rescue 
you.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


i8i 


‘‘ What about makin' sail an’ leavin’ the old pirate 
here ? ” Zenas asked eagerly, and but one glance at the 
expression on his face was sufficient to show that he 
would have been willing to go thus far in the way of 
reprisals had the matter rested wholly with him. 

You don’t mean that, Zenas,” Paul said gravely. 
“ It would be a serious matter to leave him here; I’d 
rather be forced to listen to him a full week than do 
any such mean thing as that.” 

“ It would serve him well right, that’s what it 
would,” and Master Cushing took refuge in the tiny 
hole forward which was dignified by the name of fore- 
castle. 

It was evident that Captain Tobi had no especial de- 
sire to inspect Bingham’s shanty; but had made the 
excuse in order that Zenas should understand the full 
measure of his disgrace was known. The old sailor 
did not remain on shore more than five minutes, and 
when he returned it was to get the schooner under 
way without loss of time, as if he himself were eager 
to gain Barren Island as soon as might be possible. 

I’m allowin’ you don’t want to take a last look at 
the place where you came mighty near spendin’ the 
winter, eh?” he shouted down the forecastle hatch 
after having learned to what place Master Cushing 
had fled, and if the latter made any reply the boys 
failed to hear it, as also did Captain Tobi. 

Paul and Ned remained on deck aft when the 
schooner was on her course, while the old sailor stood 
at the wheel. The boys were not inclined for conver- 
sation; but the commander of the “ butter tub ” could 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


182 

not well hold his peace while literally running over 
with the desire to yet further humiliate Zenas, and 
said in a tempestuous note calculated to penetrate to 
the forecastle: 

It does beat all how easy some folks can make 
mistakes. Now when I went after John Ed I jest 
nat’rally took him, an’ he knew better’n to squirm 

when I said he must come along ” 

“ He didn’t go very far, however,” Paul could not 
resist the temptation to say. 

‘‘ Right you are, lad ; but that was owin’ to one of 
my crew turnin’ traitor, I reckon, else the old smug- 
gler could never have got out of the hold after I 
clapped the hatches on. You can take your solemn 
’davy that I gave that man — both of ’em so’s to make 
certain of hittin’ the right one — their walkin’ papers, 
an’ it’ll be a long spell before they get a chance to ship 
on another craft like this,” and Captain Tobi gazed ad- 
miringly along the deck that was littered with odds 
and ends of every kind. ‘‘ But speakin’ of mistakes : 
What business has an imitation sailor like Zenas Cush- 

in’ to think he can down ” 

‘‘Do you expect to be paid for hunting us up?” 
Paul asked suddenly, and the old sailor turned upon 
him in surprise as he replied : 

“ Wa’al, of course I’m allowin’ that there’ll be a 
little somethin’ cornin’ to me for the job, seein’s how 
I’m obleeged to pay my men wages, an’ keep ’em in 
grub while followin’ on John Ed’s tracks.” 

“If that is the case, my father is the one to whom 
you are looking for payment, and I claim the right to 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 183 

say what shall or shall not be done aboard the craft 
that is in his employ. From this out we’ll drop all 
reference to John Ed, Zenas, or what happened while 
we were marooned. If you’re inclined to speak of 
your own mistakes, I won’t object; but nothing more 
is to be said regarding Cushing and us lads until after 
we arrive at Barren Island.” 


CHAPTER X 


MR. barton’s gifts 

When Paul thus asserted his authority Captain 
Tobi stared at him in open-mouthed astonishment, for 
that a lad should venture to restrict him in any way, 
more particularly while he was aboard his own ves- 
sel, seemed to him much like mutiny, rebellion and a 
declaration of war rolled into one. While one might 
have counted ten he gazed in bewilderment at the boy 
who had dared to assert his rights, and then with a 
long-drawn sigh turned away, whether in anger or 
disgust could not be determined. 

During a full half hour no word was spoken. Cap- 
tain Tobi stood grim and glum at the wheel, while 
Paul and Ned, stretched out at full length on the deck 
house, watched eagerly the progress of the clumsy 
schooner. Zenas yet remained in the forecastle where 
he could neither see nor be seen by his enemy, and the 
crew of two remained well in the bow of the craft as 
if realizing that the lightest word or act might cause 
to burst forth the storm of wrath which was betokened 
by the expression on the commander’s face. 

Suddenly Paul became aware that the schooner was 
standing further to the westward than should be the 
case if a direct course had been laid for Barren Island, 
and starting up in surprise he asked hurriedly: 

184 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 185 

Can’t you lay any nearer the course, Captain 
Tobi?” 

What course ? ” was the surly question. 

** For Barren Island, to be sure.” 

“ We’ll make Seaview before standin’ across.” 

“ But surely you don’t count on going so far out of 
the way when you know that father and Mr. Sawtelle 
will be eager to hear if we are safe? ” 

“ I reckon you know who owns this craft, don’t 
you ? ” 

“ Certainly, I do.” 

'' Wa’al, you can count on its bein’ a fact that the 
owner, who is likewise the cap’in, will come mighty 
nigh sailin’ where an’ how he pleases,” and the old 
sailor straightened his fat body with an assumption of 
dignity that was most comical. 

But we want to reach the island as soon as pos- 
sible.” 

“ I’m wantin’ to put in at Seaview, an’ I reckon 
that’s what we’ll do,” Captain Tobi replied stiffly, and 
straightway both the lads came very near losing con- 
trol of their temper. 

You admitted that father and Mr. Sawtelle had 
chartered this craft to go in search of us,” Ned cried 
hotly. “ That being the case you have no right to go 
off the course. It is for Paul and me to say whether 
we’ll put in to Seaview or not ! ” 

“ Look here, you young upstarts,” the captain 
roared, now so nearly in a rage that he ceased to give 
any attention to his duties as helmsman, and, as a 
natural consequence the butter tub ” fell off before 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


1 86 

the wind. “ Pm not takin’ orders from sich as you, 
an’ the sooner you understand that the easier we’ll get 
along. If you dare show any signs of mutiny aboard 
this craft I’ll clap you under the hatches same’s I’d do 
to any other man, woman or child that interfered with 
me on the high seas. I’m in command of this ’ere 
schooner, an’ know jest how far the law will allow me 
to go.” 

Zenas could not fail of hearing the words, for the 
old sailor was bellowing ” as he never had before, 
and in a twinkling Master Cushing was on deck ready 
to defend the boys. 

'Hf I hear any talk of clappin’ anybody under the 
hatches, you big lump of grease. I’ll tumble you over 
the rail! You in command of this schooner! You 
ain’t fit to be in command of a wash tub, let alone this 
imitation vessel ! ” 

Zenas walked swiftly aft as he spoke, and his 
movements were so threatening that even a more 
peaceably disposed man than Captain Tobi might well 
have been excused for believing that he intended to 
make an immediate attack on the sacred person of the 
“ commander.” It was evident that the old sailor be- 
lieved such might be the case, for, hastily seizing a be- 
lay ing-pin from the rail, he raised it threateningly 
above his head, shouting at the full force of his lungs : 

“ Come one step further aft, you mutinous dog, an’ 
I’ll brain yer! Don’t forget that I’m the captain of 
this ’ere schooner, an’ I count to be, no matter how 
many monkeys like you try to raise a row ! ” 

Paul, understanding that in Captain Tobi’s present 



"COME ONE STEP FURTHER AFT. YOU MUTINOUS DOG 
AN’ I’LL BRAIN YER!’’ 










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FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


187 

mood there was imminent danger of a bad “ mix-up,” 
ran forward, seizing Zenas by the arm before he could 
make an intemperate reply, as he said sharply: 

“ Hold your tongue, Zenas Cushing ! Can’t you 
see that Captain Tobi hardly knows what he says or 
does, and if he is angered yet more it may be neces- 
sary to have a regular battle? ” 

Fm not goin’ to let him bully me,” Zenas replied, 
taking care, however, to speak in a low tone so that 
the captain could not hear him. He’s got so in the 
habit of roarin’ an’ yellin’ at everybody when things 
don'’t go to please him, an’ failin’ into a rage at the 
least little excuse, that it would be a blessin’ to him if 
I gave the old fool a floggin’ sich as he deserves. 
What started him in the first place ? ” 

When I saw that the schooner was headed for 
Seaview instead of Barren Island, I insisted that he 
change the course, and he flew off at the first word, 
claiming that I was raising a mutiny.” 

So he’s goin’ in to Seaview, eh ? Counts on show- 
in’ us up there like a lot of monkeys! He’ll strut 
’round tellin’ everybody that John Ed got the best of 
us, an’ blowin’ his own horn to beat the band. I won’t 
go there, an’ that’s flat ! ” 

“ But you must, Zenas,” Paul said soothingly. 
“ Anything is better than for us to have a fight here 
on the schooner, and that’s what will happen if you 
make any talk.” 

During all this while Captain Tobi had remained aft 
with the belaying-pin ready for use, heeding not the 
fact that his butter tub ” was swinging here and there 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


1 88 

with the wind; but when Paul literally forced Zenas 
forward, and Ned followed the two, the old sailor 
gave his attention to handling the vessel, with the re- 
sult that once more she was headed for Seaview. 

'' He’ll be ashamed of himself after he has had 
time to cool off,” Paul whispered as he forced Zenas 
to seat himself on the rail forward, where the angry 
captain could not overhear the conversation. “Of 
course he intends to show us in the town as a lot of 
fellows who tried to catch John Ed and got the worst 
of it; but he can’t oblige us to parade through Sea- 
view with him. We’ll stay aboard, and when we are 
once more at Barren Island I promise you there shall 
come a day of reckoning, for my father won’t stand 
for the old fellow’s nonsense.” 

“ It cuts me mighty deep to stay here holdin’ my 
tongue jest because that old idjut is in roarin’ trim,” 
Master Cushing replied angrily. 

“ So it does me; but, as I said before, anything is 
better than having a rough and tumble fight. He’ll 
come out of his fit after a while.” 

“ I’d pull him out of it, mutiny or no mutiny, if you 
lads weren’t here where you might get it rough ! That 
miserable old fraud needs a sound floggin’ worse’n 
anybody I ever saw, an’ when we get back to Barren 
Island, if we ever do. I’ll give him a full dose. He 
shan’t bully us an’ come off with a whole skin ! ” 

“ He’ll get all that’s coming to him when father and 
Mr. Sawtelle take the matter up,” Paul replied sooth- 
ingly, and thus by seeming to agree that at the first 
convenient opportunity Zenas should pay off the score 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


189 

against Captain Tobi, the lad contrived to keep Master 
Cushing in something approaching a peaceful condi- 
tion. 

Meanwhile the schooner was staggering along to- 
ward Seaview, throwing the spray over her apple- 
shaped bow as if a full gale of wind were raging, and 
her captain remained at the tiller keeping a jealous 
eye on the three lads forward who had just cause for 
anger against him. Captain Tobi was evidently be- 
ginning to regret having been so hasty, for he re- 
placed the belaying-pin in the rail, and when he spoke 
to one of the crew it was in an ordinary tone instead 
of a roar. 

By dint of agreeing that a day of reckoning should 
come to Captain Tobi, the boys succeeded in soothing 
Master Cushing to such an extent that he remained 
silent, so far as having any conversation with the 
master of the schooner was concerned, until the vessel 
was run alongside the small pier at Seaview and made 
fast. 

Then none of the passengers gave heed to Captain 
Tobi’s movements, so engrossed were they with a 
powerful-looking motor boat, having much the ap- 
pearance of a yacht, which lay at anchor a short dis- 
tance out in the harbor. She was not less than forty 
feet on the water-line, with wheel-house well in the 
bow and deck-house betokening a spacious cabin run- 
ning from amidships aft to a small cock-pit; schooner- 
rigged, and glistening here and there with metal that 
shone in the rays of the setting sun like burnished gold. 

“ Say, that’s the handsomest craft I ever saw 1 ” 


190 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Zenas exclaimed with a long-drawn breath of admira- 
tion. I did think that the Neva couldn’t be beaten 
for looks; but this yacht goes way ahead of her, even 
though she isn’t more’n half as big. I reckon she be- 
longs to some rich man’s son; but what is she doin’ 
down this way in the winter ? ” 

Just at this moment the light breeze swung the little 
craft around ever so little, and the surprise of the 
boys may well be imagined when they read on the for- 
ward rail the name Silver Fox/' 

^‘What’s the meaning of that?” Ned cried in as- 
tonishment. “ Can it be possible that Mr. Sawtelle has 
had time to hunt up a craft like that since he knew 
John Ed had stolen the Hampton boat? ” 

“ Of course he hasn’t. Owning the Nera as he does, 
he wouldn’t buy a smaller craft for use at the island, 
or one that must have cost more than his own yacht 
did.” 

Even as Paul spoke a man came from below, and 
no sooner had he shown himself than Zenas shouted: 

Ahoy on the yacht! Whose craft is that? ” 

** She belongs to some young fellows over at what 
they call Silver Fox Farm.” 

Paul and Ned literally gasped in astonishment at 
hearing such a reply; but Master Cushing did not 
allow his surprise to get the better of his curiosity, 
and he cried: 

“ What are you doin’ with her here? ” 

“ My orders were to report to a man by the name of 
Mansfield here at Seaview, who would tell me how I 
could get at the owners of this yacht. When I did so 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


191 


he advised me to stay at anchor, claiming that he was 
expecting to see the boys within a few hours, and here 
I a.m” 

An' here are the boys ! ” Zenas shouted lustily. 
“ One is the son of the owner of Silver Fox Farm, an' 
the other is his cousin. Bring your tender across an' 
we'll go aboard ! " 

‘‘Of course, I ain't doubting your word," the man 
said hesitatingly ; “ but my orders were to make cer- 
tain the rightful owners got hold of her, and she's too 
valuable a craft for me to take any chances with. 
How do I know those are the boys from the fox 
farm? " 

Surely the lads had never been so rejoiced to see 
the shop-keeper as at this instant when he appeared 
coming down the hill, and while yet some distance 
away shouted cheerily: 

“Ahoy, Cap’in Tobi! Did you run across the 
lads?" 

“ I've brought 'em back, doin' the job as I allers do 
when I start out," was the gruff reply. 

“ Where are they? " 

“ Up for'ad here, hatchin' mutiny with Zenas Cush- 
in' to help 'em." 

It would have been a very dull man who could not 
understand from Captain Tobi's' tone and manner 
that something had gone wrong aboard the “ butter 
tub," and knowing the old sailor as he did, Mr. Mans- 
field had no difficulty in arriving at something like an 
understanding of the situation. 

“ Now, now, Cap'in Tobi, you’re lettin’ yourself get 


192 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


worked up over nothin’ as usual, I reckon. Seems to 
me you might’er kept your dander down long enough 
to get ’em back to Barren Island, ’cause I reckon Mr. 
Simpson will be in considerable of a sweat until he 
knows that the boys are safe. Why did you put in 
here ? ” 

That’s my business, William Mansfield, an’ I don’t 
feel called on to explain what I do to every person in 
Seaview who has nothin’ to do but pry inter other 
folks’ affairs.” 

Got it bad this time, eh, Cap’in Tobi? ” Mr. Mans- 
field said laughingly, and then, giving no further heed 
to the master of the schooner, he hailed Paul, who im- 
mediately asked if the Silver Fox might be boarded. 

Of course she can, lad, an’ a mighty fine craft she 
is — I never saw a better one. That Mr. Barton you 
folks hauled ashore sent her down here in my care to 
be delivered to you. Talk about bein’ lucky! There 
ain’t a man on this ’ere coast who wouldn’t give his 
eyes for sich a yacht. You’ll find a contraption in the 
after cabin that tells all about how you came to own 
her.” 

The man in charge of the Silver Fox, understand- 
ing from this conversation that his responsibility had 
come to an end, pulled alongside one of the daintiest 
tenders ever seen in that vicinity, and at once rowed 
over to the schooner, saying as he did so : 

“ I’m glad to be able to deliver the yacht just now, 
because I can catch the Boston steamer this evening. 
If you young gentlemen will come aboard and give 
me a bit of writing to show that I turned the craft 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


193 

over to you in good condition, my part of the work 
will be done.” 

Before he had ceased speaking Zenas and Ned were 
in the tender, and just as Paul was going over the rail 
Captain Tobi shouted in a tempestuous note, waving 
his arms in rage : 

“ Don’t you young rascals dare to leave this 
schooner! My orders were to take you to Barren 
Island, an’ I reckon you won’t sneak off in this way ! ” 

“ Why didn’t you deliver us there, instead of put- 
ting in here simply for the purpose of showing us off 
to the townspeople?” Paul cried laughingly as he 
dropped from the rail to the tender, just as the master 
of the schooner came forward on the run, belaying-pin 
in hand, as if to detain him forcibly. 

Be careful what you’re about, Cap’in Tobi! ” Mr. 
Mansfield cried warningly. You are goin’ a bit too 
far now, an’ there are them behind those lads who 
won’t stand any nonsense. You’re like to make a 
heap of trouble for yourself if you keep this course.” 

“ The little scoundrels mutinied on me, an’ I count on 
makin’ ’em smart for it before this ’ere voyage is 
finished ! ” the angry sailor cried as he brandished the 
belaying-pin at those who were being rowed swiftly 
toward the yacht. 

“ Our time is cornin’, you old idjut, an’ before I’m 
many days older you shall dance to my whistlin’ or I’ll 
know the reason why. Go put yourself in pickle, 
else there’s a chance you’ll spoil.” 

It is impossible to say what Captain Tobi in his un- 
reasoning rage might have done if Mr. Mansfield had 


194 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


not come on board at that instant and begun talking to 
him in a low but earnest tone, with the result that be- 
fore the boys gained the deck of the Silver Fox the 
old sailor had disappeared down the after companion- 
way, nor was he seen again by friend or foe during 
the remainder of that day. 

The visitors to the yacht were in such an ecstacy of 
delight with what they saw of the little craft that 
words failed them, and they went forward and aft in 
silent joy, spending no little time in the handsomely 
furnished after cabin, on the bulkhead of which was 
a silver plate with the following inscription : 

TO 

PAUL SIMPSON AND EDWARD BARTLETT, 

AS A REMINDER, BUT NOT BY WAY OF PAYMENT, 

FOR THE PART THEY PLAYED IN RESCUING 
THREE PERSONS FROM THE WRECK OF 
THE YACHT ‘‘ MERMAID ” 

You are the one to whom this craft should have 
been given, Zenas, for surely Ned and I had very little 
to do with the rescue,” Paul said as he read the en- 
graved words for at least the tenth time. 

‘‘ Pm only a hired man on Barren Island, an’ sich 
as me don’t count when it comes to passin’ around 
yachts like this,” Master Cushing replied, struggling 
hard to speak in a cheerful tone. 

'' I believe you’ll find that Mr. Barton didn’t forget 
even the hired man,” the keeper of the yacht said with 
a smile as he took from one of the lockers a small 
leather case which he handed to Zenas. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


195 


Master Cushing swallowed hard to choke back 
what was much like a sob as he drew from the case a 
massive gold watch, and the tears really came to his 
eyes as he read the inscription on the back : 

TO 

ZENAS CUSHING, 

IN AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE 
OF THE LIVES HE SAVED 
AT RISK OF HIS OWN 

Twice Zenas attempted to speak as he turned the 
watch over and over in his hands, his eyes resting 
often on the words cut deeply in the precious metal, 
and each time the tears caused by pleasurable emo- 
tions prevented him. The pause was really becoming 
painful when Mr. Mansfield entered the cabin and 
clapped Master Cushing on the back with such force 
as to send him reeling against the bulkhead, as he said 
heartily : 

'' It’s a beauty, ain’t it, Zenas ? ’Cordin’ to all I’ve 
heard of the doin’s at Barren Island when the Mer- 
maid was wrecked, you’re fairly entitled to it. The * 
cap’ in of the tug told me that Mr. Sawtelle said you 
was scared blue, yet insisted on goin’ aboard the air- 
ship when there wasn’t more’n one chance in a hun- 
dred you’d ever get back alive.” 

Zenas made no reply, but stood stupidly gazing at 
the watch, until he who had come in charge of the 
yacht said just a bit impatiently: 

“ Perhaps you young gentlemen will give me a writ- 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


196 

ten line to show that IVe delivered the goods in good 
condition. I wouldn’t hurry you; but by winding the 
business up now I can take passage on the steamer 
that’s due about this time. The other members of 
the crew went back yesterday, and I’m wanting to 
join ’em as soon as possible.” 

Then the man called Paul’s attention to a writing- 
desk built into the bulkhead, in which was a supply of 
paper and envelopes stamped with the head of a silver 
fox, and Master Simpson strove in vain to give words 
to his gratitude for the wondrously beautiful gift. 
Failing in composition to satisfy him, he wrote a sim- 
ple receipt for the yacht and the watch, promising to 
follow it by a letter when he was sufficiently recovered 
from his joy to be able to give proper heed to what 
should be an important matter. 

I reckon you young gentlemen will run the yacht 
over to the island instead of taking passage in the 
schooner that brought you here,” the ship-keeper said 
with a smile. This is the flag locker, and if such a 
craft had come into my possession she’d leave this 
port with all her colors flying.” 

Now it was that Zenas recovered sufficiently to do 
his duty, and in a twinkling the little craft was decked 
out in a bravery of flags, the silken one on which was 
painted the head of a fox being displayed at the main- 
mast head. 

When this had been done the Boston steamer hove 
in sight, and the ship-keeper hurried ashore. Master 
Cushing rowing him to the dock in a tender that 
seemed to have been made as much for an ornament 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


197 


as for use. When he returned and came carefully 
alongside lest he should scratch the paint on either 
yacht or small boat, he said as he laid the oars care- 
fully amidships: 

“ I'm allowin’ that we’ll get a dory for real service 
when we go cruisin’ in this ’ere craft, for these tenders 
are much too fine for sich as me.” 

“ What have you done with your watch ? ” Mr. 
Mansfield asked, and Master Cushing replied as if be- 
lieving such a question needless : 

“In the after cabin, of course. Do you allow I’d 
wear anythin’ so nice as that ? It’s to be kept to look 
at, same as these ’ere tenders are. We’ll buy a small 
dory, lads ” 

“ That reminds me that your people have got a dory 
here,” Mr. Mansfield interrupted. “ It was left with 
me yesterday, an’ you may as well tow it across, for I 
reckon the folks at the island are in need of her, an’ 
you can count as lost the one John Ed took away.” 

“How did you know what he did?” Ned asked 
quickly, for he believed the happenings at Pleasant 
Harbor yet remained a secret from the good people 
of Seaview. 

“ He stopped here in your Hampton boat to make 
his brags; he said you boys an’ Zenas had gone down 
to the point countin’ on takin’ him prisoner, an’ he’d 
left you there. How do you s’pose Cap’in Tobi would 
have known where to go if we hadn’t got the full par- 
tic’lars from the old villain himself? ” 

“ The captain would have had us believe that he 
ferreted the whole affair out with no one to help him; 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


198 

but say, Mr. Mansfield, if John Ed came ashore here 
and told you he had taken our Hampton boat, you 
must have known that there was on board all the 
stores we had taken in, so why didn’t you have him 
arrested ? ” 

“ That’s jest what I would have done, my son, if 
the old fox had given me the chance; but he was too 
sly to take any chances. He came ashore at dark, 
when all the folks that generally loaf around my shop 
were at supper, an’ I all alone in the buildin’. He 
didn’t even come inside, but allowed he was doin’ you 
a good turn by leavin’ word as to where you might 
be found, an’ so far as that goes, he was in the right. 
Before I could get out from behind the counter he 
was off, runnin’ like a flash, an’ less’n five minutes 
afterward I heard the Hampton boat goin’ out of 
the harbor.” 

Then it was no more than natural that the boys 
should speak of Captain Tobi’s unwarranted behavior, 
and this in a great measure the shop-keeper was able 
to explain. 

“ The whole amount of the story is that the old 
man’s mightily disappointed because he couldn’t pa- 
rade the town with you at his heels, tellin’ what he’d 
done to give John Ed a jolt. When I told him where 
you were, he declared he’d put in here before goin’ to 
Barren Island, an’ show the folks that Zenas Cushin’ 
had been obliged to come to him for help out of a hob- 
ble his own foolishness had got him into.” 

“ But why should he have gone into such a rage 
shortly after leaving Pleasant Harbor? He hadn’t 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


199 

then had a chance to be disappointed in not putting 
Zenas on exhibition.” 

I can’t go back that far, lad, ’cause I don’t know 
anythin’ about what happened after he took you 
aboard. Perhaps you said somethin’ that made him 
suspect you couldn’t be led around by the nose jest 
to please him.” 

Then it was Paul remembered what he had said 
relative to the schooner being chartered to his father, 
when he peremptorily ordered Captain Tobi to re- 
frain from making sport of Zenas; and the entire mat- 
ter appeared to have been explained, although it in no 
wise was sufficient excuse for such an exhibition of 
unreasoning anger as had been displayed by the owner 
of the craft. 

‘‘ I allowed your people wouldn’t have any hope of 
gettin’ from John Ed what he stole, an’ ^t stood to 
reason that you’d be needin’ the goods on the island 
right away, so I put up another order of the same 
kind, an’ if you lads take my advice, you’ll hang on 
here long enough to put the stuff aboard, thus savin’ 
you an extra trip across.” 

It seems too bad to put merchandise aboard a 
craft like this,” Paul said regretfully, and the shop- 
keeper added quickly: 

She won’t come to any harm through it, for you 
can stow all the goods in the forecastle where the fur- 
nishin’s ain’t as fine as they are here aft, and takin’ 
a little care, when you swing the stuff over the rail, 
you’ll never know, after the cargo has been taken out, 
that it was put aboard.” 


200 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Although Master Cushing looked upon the Silver 
Fox as something too dainty for ordinary service, he 
was eager to act upon the shop-keeper’s suggestion 
because by so doing the more serious portion of the 
mischief wrought by the old smuggler would be 
averted. True it is the Hampton boat and all on 
board her, in addition to the new dory, would remain 
a loss; but if a duplicate amount of stores and another 
tender could be taken across at once, the workmen 
there would not be delayed. 

“ It’ll be the next thing to gettin’ back what we lost 
through my foolishness,” he said eagerly, and Mr. 
Mansfield went on shore promising that the cargo 
should be sent to the pier as soon as his horse could 
be harnessed. 

When Master Cushing had rowed the shop-keeper 
ashore, the next in order was to warp the Silver Fox 
alongside the pier that the goods might readily be put 
on board, and while doing this, as Ned afterward said, 
they '' handled the little craft as if she had been made 
of the most fragile material.” 

When this had been done, and during the enforced 
delay caused by Mr. Mansfield’s slowly moving horse, 
the boys and Zenas made a thorough inspection of 
Mr. Barton’s gift, and it really seemed as if the more 
they saw of the little craft the wilder was their de- 
light. 

The engine-room, in which was a thirty-horse-power 
motor, was finished to compare favorably with the 
after cabin. The place was light and airy, and Paul 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


201 


felt positive he would be quite as content to play the 
part of engineer as that of helmsman. 

Amidships, just forward of the main cabin, was a 
tiny kitchen with a gasoline range and copper cook- 
ing utensils that shone like gold, while everywhere 
were lockers for dishes, food, ice, and in fact all that 
the most fastidious chef might need. 

The wheel-house was to Zenas a place of perfect 
beauty, the lockers with soft cushions of velvet; ma- 
rine glasses in cases on the bulkhead, compass, barom- 
eter, speaking tubes to the engine-room, and electric 
bells to different parts of the vessel. 

She knocks the stuffin’ out’er the Nera/' Master 
Cushing said in a tone of deepest admiration when 
they overhauled the <four sleeping berths aft, and 
found them well supplied with bedding. “ I wouldn’t 
ask for anythin’ more in this world than jest to 
cruise from one place to another in this craft.” 

“ We shall have something to do besides cruising 
for pleasure,” Paul replied gravely as he and his com- 
panions came to a halt in the cockpit, which was fur- 
nished with willow lounging chairs and the softest of 
soft cushions on the lockers. “John Ed has stolen 
our Hampton boat with all on board, and I don’t in- 
tend to sit still and let him get off with the property 
if it can be avoided. Mr. Sawtelle will most likely 
insist on our giving all our attention to re-building the 
Smuggler; but even though I am eager to have one 
long cruise in her, I intend to go out in the Silver Fox 
every fair day when the sea doesn’t run too high, and 
search for him. Now that we’ve got a yacht of our 


202 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


own, one that looks as if she might be a good sea-boat, 
we can go when and where we please.” 

This craft will sail like a bird, an’ stand up under 
heavy weather as well as the Neva/' Zenas cried con- 
fidently. '' John Ed has had his own way so long in 
this section of the country that he thinks it’s possible 
to do as he pleases, an’ even though I did make the 
biggest kind of a fool of myself at Pleasant Harbor, 
I’m certain that we can finally lay him by the heels.” 

One thing seems certain, and that is, we won’t be 
bothered with Captain Tobi shrieking around the 
island for rock cod and salt pork,” Ned added laugh- 
ingly. “ After the way in which he has behaved he’ll 
be likely to give Silver Fox Farm a wide berth.” 

Don’t you count too strong on that,” Zenas cried 
with a note of anger in his tone. “ The old pirate is 
a good deal like Bingham, in thinkin’ he can run mat- 
ters around here to please himself. Unless I’m way 
out of my reckonin’, you’ll see that old butter tub of 
his in Barren Island harbor within a week, an’ he 
struttin’ ’round puttin’ on airs while he explains to 
Daniel an’ the boys how he saved the three of us from 
bein’ all chewed up by John Ed, when there wasn’t 
another person in the world who could have worked 
the trick.” 

At this point the conversation was interrupted by 
the arrival of the shop-keeper with a dray-load of 
goods, and during the next half hour the crew of the 
Silver Fox were busily engaged taking the stores 
aboard in the most gingerly manner possible lest the 
paint should be scratched ever so slightly. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


203 


“ Now, you folks won’t suffer because of what 
John Ed did,” Mr. Mansfield said in a tone of satis- 
faction as the last package disappeared down the 
forecastle hatch, and he would have turned about to 
retrace his steps up the hill, but that Master Cushing 
shouted as he went into the tiny wheel-house : 

“Wait a minute an’ see her scoot out of this har- 
bor. I’m allowin’ you’ve never seen the like of her 
for speed ! ” 


CHAPTER XI 


PLANS FOR THE FUTURE 

Truly the little yacht did scoot ” when Paul sent 
her ahead at full speed, and a loud shout from Mr. 
Mansfield told that he fully appreciated the exhibition 
as, with a thin jet of water spouting up from her 
sharp stem, the Silver Fox sped out of the harbor 
headed for Barren Island, with the last rays of the 
setting sun glinting every bit of polished metal until 
it was as if she was sending forth flashes of light. 

What about it? ” Paul cried through the speaking 
tube leading to the wheel-house, and Ned, who had 
taken his station by the side of Zenas in order the bet- 
ter to watch the progress of the yacht, replied in a 
tone of mingled admiration and triumph : 

“ She’s a peach ! Come on deck and watch her for 
a minute. She can sail all around the Nera without 
being pushed very hard.” 

“ I guess she isn’t quite so fast as that; but I’m com- 
ing out to have a look at her,” Paul replied laugh- 
ingly, and a moment later he was "standing on the 
deck in front of the wheel-house, joining with Ned 
and Zenas in their loudly-spoken words of admi- 
ration. 

'' It’s too bad that we can’t arrive at the island be- 
fore dark, for I’d like to have the people there see 
204 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


205 

her for the first time with all flags flying and a big 
bone in her teeth.” 

Never fear, Paul, but that we’ll show her off in 
great style, even if we don’t cut so very much of a 
splurge this evening,” and Master Cushing Angered 
the spokes of the dainty wheel lovingly. Now let 
us get on the track of that miserable Bingham, an’ 
we’ll overhaul him in short order, even though he has 
got the Hampton boat away from us! ” 

To relate all that was said during the run from Sea- 
view to Barren Island would be repeating the same 
words again and again, for the boys and Zenas seemed 
to find it impossible to speak of anything save the 
beauty and swiftness of the Silver Fox. 

Even though her flags had been lowered, the little 
craft made a brave display when, shortly after night 
had shut down, she ran into the harbor at the island, 
every light twinkling, and came to anchor close along- 
side the Nera. 

Warned by the whistle of the little craft, the owners 
of the farm and all aboard Mr. Sawtelle’s yacht were 
on deck when Mr. Barton’s splendid gift swung to 
her moorings, rocking gently on the swell caused by 
her own screw, and immediately came the hail from 
the larger craft: 

Ahoy, what craft is that? ” 

The Silver Fox of Barren Island,” Paul shouted, 
for he had come on deck as soon as possible after 
shutting off the motor in order to answer the hail 
which he expected. 

What name did you say ? ” the boys heard Mr. 


2o6 airship cruising 

Sawtelle ask in a tone of astonishment, and Paul re- 
peated : 

The Silver Fox oi Barren Island, just in from 
Seaview with supplies for the farm ! ” 

But — I never — Who is in command ? ” 

Mr. Zenas Cushing has the wheel ; Paul Simpson 
acts as engineer, and Edward Bartlett is able seaman. 
We’ll send our tender so that you may come aboard 
and see the most beautiful yacht that was ever 
launched.” 

Zenas did not wait to be told what to do, but in a 
twinkling he and Ned had the dory which had been 
towed from the mainland alongside, and five minutes 
later the owners of Silver Fox Farm were admiring 
the gifts sent by Mr. Barton. 

Not until he had inspected every portion of the new 
craft carefully was Mr. Sawtelle willing to hear the 
story of the boys’ misadventure, and then he gave 
token that his curiosity regarding their long absence 
was not so keen but that he could minister to his own 
comfort while hearing the particulars. 

“ The cook was about to serve supper when you ar- 
rived. Come aboard the Nera if you can leave your 
little ship alone for so long a time, and let us hear 
what delayed you.” 

The meal that evening was prolonged until the 
cook was near to losing his patience, for it was not 
possible the boys could tell their story and give proper 
attention to the food at the same time, and their hun- 
ger, now that they had in front of them a properly 
prepared meal once more, was greater than the de- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


207 


sire to make known this last phase of John Ed’s vil- 
lainy. It was Paul who attempted to explain matters 
in sequence, but his comrades interrupted so often 
that when the tale had come to an end each of the 
participants in the disastrous venture had had equal 
part in the relation. 

Well ? ” Paul said questioningly when all the de- 
tails had been given, even to Captain Tobi’s ill-ad- 
vised behavior, and neither of the partners made any 
comment. 

“ It is no more than might have been expected,” 
Mr. Sawtelle finally replied. “ For you three to 
fancy it might be possible to make Bingham a prisoner 
in such manner, was sheer folly. You seem to have 
lost sight of the fact that, after all the mischief he has 
wrought on this coast, the old smuggler would be on 
the alert, expecting hourly that some one would come 
in search of him.” 

“ I allowed we might run up on him so softly that 
he wouldn’t suspect any one was near till we had him 
under our thumb,” Master Cushing replied sheepishly, 
and Mr. Simpson said laughingly : 

Yet at the same time you took no precaution to 
muffle the beat of the screw. Don’t you know that 
water will carry sound a long distance? ” 

I do know it, sir ; but it seemed sich an easy trick 
to get the best of John Ed jest then that I never 
thought about it until he had served us out in great 
shape.” 

'' Are you quite certain that you did not provoke 
Captain Tobi in greater measure than you have con- 


208 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


fessed?” Mr. Sawtelle asked, and again Paul re- 
peated all that had been said to the old sailor, where- 
upon the owner of the Neva said thoughtfully: 

“ I am inclined to believe that we had best give no 
further heed to what Captain Tobi would have done; 
but in the future, care shall be taken that he doesn’t 
have another opportunity to abuse his authority. At 
the time, he was the only one we could send in search 
of you — I believed you had wrecked the Hampton 
boat while running into Seaview harbor, consequently 
fancied it was only a matter of sending the old 
man to bring you back. The Nera was not in condi- 
tion to put to sea, and even though she had been, I 
question whether Mr. Simpson and I would not 
have decided that it would be best to send the old 
captain.” 

‘Hf we hadn’t found the Silver Fox waiting for us, 
we’d be in Seaview this minute, waiting for Captain 
Tobi to spread the news of Bingham’s latest exploit, 
and exhibiting us as victims rescued from death 
through his superior skill and knowledge,” Ned 
added laughingly. 

‘‘ The old smuggler has now rendered it necessary 
for us to devote the greater portion of our time to run- 
ning him down. With the Hampton boat at his dis- 
posal he can well sneak in this harbor during a dark 
night, and work considerable mischief, unless we keep 
all our people on the alert as sentinels. From this on 
our most important task shall be the capture of Bing- 
ham.” 

With the Silver Fox we’ll be able to put in almost 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


209 


anywhere the Hampton can go, an’ unless the 
weather turns mighty bad, we ought’er be able to get 
an idee of where he is, providin’ he hasn’t gone too 
far away,” Zenas said meekly, for after his latest 
misadventure he was careful not to put his opinions 
forward too prominently. 

“ Not only your yacht, but the Nera and the Smug- 

gler shall be used in the search. We will ” 

‘‘ The Smuggler! ” Paul interrupted. Will it be 
possible for you to repair her this winter ? ” 

She will be in sailing trim much sooner than we 
had anticipated. We have given the wreck a thorough 
overhauling, and were surprised to learn that the dam- 
age done was comparatively slight. The envelope 
needs only to be sewed together, for the ripping valve 
opened it cleanly, and but two of the braces were splin- 
tered. The car sustained the greatest injury, and to 
repair it will be a small matter, now that we have ma- 
terial in plenty. Within a week I shall be ready to 
take her out of the hangar whenever the weather is 
favorable.” 

Then you are countin’ on sailin’ her this winter ? ” 
Zenas asked in surprise. 

We shall take her out at every opportunity, and it 
would seem as if, with one ship in the air and another 
in the water, we might be able to locate the man who 
has given us so much trouble. Either Paul or Ned 
will sail in the Nera, to work the wireless, and the 
other lad is to be aboard the Smuggler , to the end that 
we can have uninterrupted communication between 
the two craft.” 


210 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


And you are not countin’ that the Silver Fox will 
have any part in chasin’ John Ed? 

‘‘ It is possible she might be needed after we had 
learned where the man is in hiding; but until then no 
more than the airship and my yacht can be of service 
because of the fact that we must work the wireless, in 
order to render the search more thorough, and we 
have but two operators.” 

‘‘What about yourself, sir?” 

“ I must be at the wheel of the Smuggler, therefore 
will not be able to attend to anything save the work- 
ing of the ship.” 

At this point the conversation was brought to a 
close by Mr. Simpson, who advised that the boys and 
Zenas go to bed. None of the party from Pleasant 
Harbor had been able to gain very much rest while 
they were the unwilling guests of Bingham, and now, 
interested though they might be in what Mr. Saw- 
telle said regarding his intentions to hunt down the 
old smuggler, both the boys were nodding in their 
chairs. Even Master Cushing’s eyes grew narrow, 
and without protest he followed Paul and Ned to their 
cabins. 

Another day had but just dawned, and the sun 
would not show his face above the horizon for half an 
hour or more, when Zenas awakened the boys by 
claiming that it was necessary they make certain the 
Silver Fox was yet riding safely at her moorings. 
This was sufficient to bring the boys to their feet on 
the instant, and as soon as a hasty toilet could be 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


2II 


made the three were on board the dainty craft, ad- 
miring once more all her beauties. 

For once in their lives the Downs boys were astir 
early, most likely having been tempted from their 
bed by Daniel’s announcement that a strange craft 
was in the harbor, and the owners of the Silver Fox 
were interrupted in their second inspection of the 
dainty little yacht by a hail from the shore. 

‘‘ It’s Sam and Ernest,” Zenas announced as he 
looked out from the motor room. I’m allowin’ 
they’re keen to see this ’ere boat, an’ I’m goin’ to 
give ’em the chance.” 

Then, so eager was he to exhibit the new yacht. 
Master Cushing rowed ashore in the dory, saying to 
the Downs boys as they clambered on board: 

“ When you go ashore you’d best take this dory 
with you, so we’ll have a craft on the beach whenever 
any one wants to come off. After this we’ll use the 
tenders belonging to the Silver Fox.” 

As a matter of course it immediately became neces- 
sary for Zenas to explain how it was that the new 
yacht had come into the harbor, and in telling the 
story, while rowing the dory out to the little craft, he 
took good care not to dwell at any length on the trick 
John Ed had played upon those who had hoped to 
take him prisoner. 

It is needless to set down the fact that Daniel 
Downs’ sons were enthusiastic in their praise of the 
Silver Fox, and while they were going forward and 
aft, above and below, Paul plied them with questions 
regarding what had been done on the island. 


212 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


The house for the crow-chaser is finished, an’ 
you’ll be surprised to see how quickly the wreck has 
been repaired,” Sam explained. “ Father an’ I be- 
lieved she’d never be put together agin; but now it 
looks as if Mr. Sawtelle could take the chances of 
breakin’ his neck in her whenever he gets ready. I 
don’t reckon you fellows saw John Ed while you were 
at Seaview? ” 

‘‘Have you been after fish for the foxes?” Zenas 
asked hurriedly, not minded that Sam’s question 
should be answered. 

“We were out the day you went away, an’ the next. 
I reckon we caught fish enough to last the animals a 
week, an’ now we’ve got a new dory it’ll be possible to 
go whenever the weather is fair. We were put to it 
mighty hard after Cap’in Tobi left port, ’cause we 
didn’t have a boat of any kind ” 

“ How did the workmen get on an’ off the island ? ” 

“ They staid ashore, where they are now ; but father 
fixed up a raft so’s Mr. Sawtelle an’ Mr. Simpson 
could get across to the beach where Cap’in Tobi’s 
schooner laid. Did you see anythin’ of John Ed, an’ 
where is the cap’in ? ” 

“ The man who’s so crazy after rock cod an’ salt 
pork is most likely in Seaview; leastways we left him 
there, an’ I’m hopin’ he won’t find it convenient to 
come back here very soon.” 

“ That’s what I hope,” Ernest said with emphasis, 
and Sam cried as he pointed seaward : 

“If that ain’t Cap’in Tobi’s schooner, I never saw 
her!” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


213 


‘‘ Well, I’ll be jiggered! ” Master Cushing exclaimed 
as he turned to gaze in the direction indicated by Sam. 

Who’d think the old pirate would have the nerve to 
come here so soon ? ’’ 

Why shouldn’t he come ? ” Ernest asked curi- 
ously. He was hired to find out why you fellows 
staid away so long, an’ I reckon he has come back to 
say he couldn’t get on the track. Where have you 
been ? ” 

“ Look here, boys,” and Master Cushing spoke in 
the most friendly tone, “ our breakfast must be ready 
by this time, an’ you’d better go ashore, ’cause some 
of the folks there may be wantin’ to come out an’ talk 
with Mr. Sawtelle.” 

“ But tell us where you staid so long,” Sam in- 
sisted, and Paul replied with a smile: 

“ Some of the time we were in the Hampton boat ; 
we also went aboard Captain Tobi’s craft, and after- 
ward sailed this little beauty.” 

But where did you go ? ” 

“ The dory is ready, an’ you boys had better skip, 
’cause we’re expected aboard the Neva'' Zenas cried 
as he literally pushed Sam over the rail, and Ernest 
could do no less than follow; but before the owners of 
the new yacht could row across to the larger craft 
Sam shouted again the question : 

Where’ve you been so long? ” 

‘‘ They won’t hear any part of that story from me,” 
Master Cushing said grimly; but if Cap’in Tobi has 
the nerve to come into this harbor I reckon he’ll give 
the whole yarn away, addin’ considerably to it.” 


214 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ He can’t make the matter appear much worse than 
it really was, unless he insists that we were dangerous 
mutineers,” and Paul laughed as he went over the 
Neva's rail, for now that he was at Barren Island 
once more the past troubles seemed much less than 
they had twelve hours before. 

Neither of the owners of Silver Fox Farm appeared 
greatly surprised by the information that Captain 
Tobi was evidently returning. Despite the fact that 
he had behaved much like a brute to those who had 
been marooned, it was only reasonable to suppose he 
would return to receive the promised payment for his 
services while in search of the boys. Mr. Sawtelle 
treated the matter carelessly, declaring that the sooner 
the matter was settled the better, and cautioning 
Zenas against saying anything which might provoke a 
wordy battle. 

“ What has been done and said can’t well be 
mended ; you can do no good by having a quarrel, and 
we have too much work on hand to permit of our 
wasting any time on him.” 

If he’ll keep his tongue between his teeth, I’ll 
hold my peace,” Zenas said grimly ; ‘‘ but it’s goin’ to 
be mighty tough to let him spout, as he’s bound to do, 
without answerin’ back. If it hadn’t been for Billy 
Mansfield’s cornin’ down on the pier, that old pirate 
would have tried to make us stay aboard his bloomin’ 
old schooner while he traipsed all over town tellin’ his 
story, an’ then there would have been a mix-up for 
sure, ’cause I’d given him the floggin’ of his life.” 

Well, since that didn’t happen, and because he 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


215 


really has the right to come here for the purpose of 
making a report, try not to dig up yesterday’s quar- 
rels,” the owner of the Neva said laughingly, and dur- 
ing the remainder of the time spent over the morning 
meal, he laid plans for hunting out John Ed, showing 
by the interest displayed that he was firmly fixed in the 
determination to make the capture of the old smug- 
gler the most important of his duties. 

When Zenas and the boys next went on deck the 
‘‘ butter tub ” was coming around the northerly point 
of the harbor, and they remained aboard the Nera 
until the schooner had come to anchor, when Captain 
Tobi shouted as usual to Daniel Downs regarding the 
possibility of his getting a mess of rock cod and salt 
pork for breakfast. 

Come right ashore, an’ mother’ll have you fixed 
out in short order,” the farmer replied, and the boys 
fancied that he was not particularly well pleased at 
having his old friend for a guest so soon again. 

So you got here a leetle ahead of me,” the old 
' sailor roared, turning to face the Nera as if only at 
that moment was he aware the boys were in sight. I 
reckon I’d best lay here a spell, so’s to lend a hand 
when you tackle John Ed agin, eh? ” 

‘‘ The old pirate ! ” Zenas whispered angrily. “ He 
can’t wait to get ashore before tellin’ of what hap- 
pened to us.” 

Remember what Mr. Sawtelle told you,” Paul re- 
plied in a low tone, and then added curtly to Captain 
Tobi: 

“ You needn’t neglect your own business in order 


2i6 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


to lend us a hand. If it should chance that we got 
into a scrape with Bingham we’ll hope you won’t be 
in condition to help us out.” 

“ Now, what have you got down your back? ” the 
old sailor roared. ‘‘ Here am I jest come in after 
doin’ all I could to save you from starvin’, an’ you 
don’t seem willin’ to thank me for it.” 

It was Paul who forgot Mr. Sawtelle’s words of 
caution; this being much the same as accused of in- 
gratitude caused him to lose his temper, which was, 
perhaps, exactly what Captain Tobi desired, and he 
replied hotly : 

“ After what happened aboard that schooner of 
yours you can’t expect us to feel very well disposed 
toward you 

“ When boys don’t know what’s due the master of 
a vessel, an’ count on takin’ command themselves, it’s 
lucky for them that somebody with sound sense is 
standin’ by to hold ’em in line. I strained every nerve, 
goin’ to sea in a craft that was about the same as a 
wreck, an’ found you where John Ed had left you 
stranded, as no other man in these ’ere parts could 
have done, an’ now you’ve got a grouch on agin your 
best friends. S’posen I hadn’t had sense enough to 
look for you in Pleasant Harbor after Bingham stole 
your boat an’ her cargo, what would have happened? 
Tell me that, an’ then turn, if you can, on the one 
man who pulled you out of a hole ! ” 

“ Now, he’s much the same as told the whole story, 
an’ that was what he counted on doin’,” Zenas whis- 
pered. Couldn’t wait till he got ashore, but must 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


217 

bellow everythin’ so’s all hands an’ the cook could hear 
what he said.” 

Before Master Cushing ceased speaking Paul real- 
ized that he had made a mistake in giving Captain 
Tobi such an opportunity, and without delay he went 
into the motor room as the best method of bringing the 
disagreeable conversation to a close. By this time 
the owners of the island were on deck ready to pre- 
vent any further controversy, and instantly they ap- 
peared the old sailor roared: 

“ I did what I agreed to. Found that smart Zenas 
Cushin’ an’ the two boys marooned in Pleasant Har- 
bor, where John Ed left ’em when they were sich 
id juts as to give him a chance to steal their boat with 
all on board ” 

That will do. Captain Tobi,” Mr. Sawtelle said 
sharply. We have heard all the particulars, and you 
may come aboard to be paid for your work whenever 
it is convenient.” 

'' I reckon I ’bout the same as saved ’em from star- 
vin’ to death, an’ then they mutinied on me jest ’cause 
I felt called on to put inter Seaview before cornin’ 
across ” 

We won’t discuss the matter now,” the owner of 
the Neva cried in a tone of irritation; but Captain 
Tobi had no idea of holding his peace until the entire 
matter had been aired with such volume of sound that 
even the men at work in the hangar must have been 
able to distinguish the words without difficulty. 

It was rank mutiny on the high seas, that’s what 
it was ! ” the old sailor continued, “ an it’s my boun- 


2i8 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


den duty to have ’em brought before the court as dan- 
gerous characters — leastways, Zenas Cushin’ is need- 
in’ sich a dose ” 

“If you have any complaint to make, or any busi- 
ness to transact with me, come aboard where the mat- 
ters can be attended to without such an unseemly 
noise,” and now Mr. Sawtelle spoke in so severe a tone 
that Captain Tobi really did not dare say more. 

“ He has told all he can, an’ now I reckon the old 
pirate will go ashore an’ chew it over until Daniel an’ 
his boys get the idee that we tried to hoist the black 
flag over the butter tub,” Master Cushing muttered, 
and Paul’s father said in a tone of command : 

“ You boys may set us ashore. You are to do your 
full share of work on the airship, for if we are to 
catch Bingham it seems to me necessary we be ready 
to leave the island whenever the weather permits. 
Give no further heed to Captain Tobi, and he may 
grow tired of trying to expose what you are forced 
to admit was a piece of folly.” 

“ We’ll pay for it all right, if that lump of fat stays 
here on the island bellowin’ the story from mornin’ till 
night,” Zenas muttered as he lowered one of the ten- 
ders belonging to the Silver Fox into the water. 

Captain Tobi went on shore shortly after Mr. Saw- 
telle reduced him to silence, and he had hardly more 
than disappeared inside Daniel Downs’ home when the 
owners of the island and the boys were on their way 
to the hangar, where work was found for every one. 

So far as an experienced eye could see, the Smug- 
gler was in as good condition as before she was sent 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


219 


out in the teeth of a living gale to rescue those on the 
wreck of the Mermaid. The envelope had been re- 
paired ; more gas made to fill it and the ballonets ; the 
car put into shape once more, and the huge ship was 
straining at her moorings as if eager to be in the air 
again. A close examination of the ship, however, re- 
vealed the fact that there was much to be done here 
and there before she should be in an “ airworthy ’’ 
condition, and soon all hands were engaged at the 
several tasks under the close supervision of Mr. Saw- 
telle. 

Not until the forenoon was nearly spent did any of 
the laborers indulge in conversation, and then the 
owner of the Nera said in reply to Ned’s question : 

There is no reason why we should not be able to 
navigate the air as well in the winter as the summer, 
except that it will not be wise to put so much depend- 
ence in the weather. On a calm day we may safely 
put out for a twenty-mile cruise, although I am free 
to confess that I would not have thought of doing so 
until spring, but for the seeming necessity of captur- 
ing the man who has been allowed to do so much mis- 
chief hereabouts. You may not have noticed, be- 
cause of being so engrossed with Mr. Barton’s gift, 
that the Nera is in good shape, all the damage having 
been repaired. We shall have finished our work on 
the Smuggler within two or three days, and then it is 
only a case of waiting until the weather gives us the 
opportunity of beginning the search.” 

How are you intending to do that, sir? ” 

By sending the Nera ahead to run along the coast. 


220 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


on the first day northward, and, failing in finding any 
traces of our man, the second day she will sail south- 
ward. When we have given her time to get across we 
will start in the Smuggler ^ and by flying at a height 
of three or four hundred feet, we should be able to see 
a craft as large as our Hampton boat, by the aid of 
glasses, a long distance away. With the wireless we 
can keep the airship and the yacht in communication, 
and it will be odd if between the two craft we fail of 
getting on the track of our man. When you lads and 
Zenas can be spared from the work here, it will be a 
good idea for you to run over to Sea view in the Silver 
Fox, in order to learn whether Mr. Mansfield has 
heard anything regarding John Ed.” 

This last was good news to Master Cushing and 
the boys. It seemed to them as if the trip across from 
the mainland had not been enough to make them well 
acquainted with the working of the new yacht, and 
during nearly every waking hour since their arrival 
they had striven to find some excuse for a cruise, 
however short, in the dainty boat. 

They worked the more industriously because of hav- 
ing before them the prospect of a voyage to Seaview, 
and when night came so much progress had been made 
on the repairs to the Smuggler that Mr. Sawtelle said 
as they sat at table enjoying a supper such as only 
the cook of the N era could prepare : 

“If the weather is fair in the morning, with not 
too much wind, you may try your new boat. We are 
needing some little in the way of material which Mr. 
Mansfield should be able to supply, and it is none too 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


221 


soon to begin making inquiries about Bingham, for 
I believe that with one more day’s work, the Smug- 
gler will be ready for the air.” 

No sooner had the meal come to an end than Master 
Cushing insisted on going aboard the Silver Fox, to 
make certain everything was shipshape,” although 
the little craft was known to be in perfect condition, 
and until a late hour the three remained in the after 
cabin with all the lamps alight, discussing the possi- 
bilities of the proposed chase. 

To the great surprise of the boys Zenas was not 
confident that it would be possible to capture the old 
smuggler; it was as if his imprisonment in Pleasant 
Harbor had given him an exalted opinion of John Ed’s 
power, and he raised so many doubts concerning 
their ability to do this that Paul said laughingly: 

You are getting to be as bad as Daniel Downs 
and his sons! Until lately you have been positive 
we’d be able to lay Bingham by the heels whenever 
we began the chase properly; but now you seem to 
think all of us combined can’t prevail against 
him.” 

That comes mighty near bein’ a fact, lad,” Mas- 
ter Cushing said with a long-drawn sigh. “ I’m 
forced to admit that he’s got me beaten to a stand- 
still, an’ he’s had his own way in villainy so long a 
fellow can’t help believin’ he’ll keep it up.” 

Whether you are cowed by Bingham or not, it’s 
time we turned in,” Ned cried laughingly. “ If we 
are to start for Seaview in the morning, it stands us 
in hand to get away early, and some one had best get 


222 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


orders to-night from Mr. Sawtelle so that we won’t 
be obliged to wait till he wakens.” 

This Paul undertook to do, and the three went 
aboard the Nera after carefully locking all the outer 
doors and hatches on the Silver Fox to shut out visi- 
tors. The list of material needed had already been 
prepared, and Paul’s father said as he gave the same 
to his son : 

“ You are not to start unless there is every promise 
of a fair day, and if it should chance that the wind 
sprang up after you arrived at Seaview, you are to re- 
main in the harbor until everything is favorable for 
the return. You can telegraph from there at any time 
between eleven and twelve at noon, when Mr. Saw- 
telle will be in the wireless station either on shore or 
aboard the yacht.” 

With this understanding Paul joined his comrades, 
and the three, not a little weary because of having 
worked hard and steadily all day, were soon in the 
land of dreams, where they remained without cross- 
ing the border of consciousness, until the cook 
aroused them next morning according to promise. 

It’ll be daylight in less’n half an hour, and I’ll set 
about getting breakfast at once,” he said, speaking in 
a cautious tone lest the owners of the island should be 
awakened. 

“ What about the weather? ” 

‘‘ It’s too early to say off-hand what the day will be; 
the engineer predicts considerable wind ’twixt now 
and noon, and there are clouds enough in the sky to 
warrant it,” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


223 


‘‘Of course somethin’ will turn up to prevent us 
from leavin’ the harbor,” Zenas grumbled as he hur- 
riedly dressed. “ There’s got to be more than an 
ordinary wind to make me agree that we can’t run 
across an’ back in that yacht. She’s as good a seaboat 
as the Nera, an’ Mr. Sawtelle wouldn’t let any little 
breeze prevent him from puttin’ to sea in her.” 

It is easy to disbelieve in a prediction if one’s 
mind is set against it, and when the day had fully 
dawned the boys claimed that there was nothing in the 
way of signs or tokens to prevent them from getting 
under way. A few fleecy clouds could be seen in the 
north and east, and the morning breeze was fresh 
enough to sing in the Neva's rigging; but otherwise 
than that the dawn gave promise of a pleasant day. 

“ We’ll start,” Paul said decidedly after breakfast 
had been served and the three had gone aboard the 
Silver Fox. “ I’m certain father wouldn’t insist that 
there was any indication of a storm, and even though 
the wind should increase by noon, as the engineer 
believes, it won’t bother us any, for we’ll be back be- 
fore twelve o’clock.” 

As a matter of course this decision pleased Master 
Cushing thoroughly well, and on the instant he set 
about raising the anchor, working with feverish haste 
lest either of the owners of the island should come 
on deck to forbid their leaving the harbor. 

Ned did his share of getting the little craft under 
way, and then stood well in the bow where he could 
watch her as she dashed forward in obedience to the 
impulse of the screw. 


CHAPTER XII 


A GLIMPSE OF JOHN ED 

The crew of the Silver Fox were so occupied with 
watching the yacht under varying speeds, and with 
admiring again and again every portion of her, that 
they gave little or no heed to anything else. 

Paul, in order that he might have the feel of 
her under his feet, changed stations with Zenas, and 
was loud in his praise of the ease with which she could 
be steered, while Ned first ran the motor and then 
stood at the helm, until all three had had experience 
in handling the dainty little vessel at one station or 
the other. 

Thus engrossed in trying out the yacht they gave 
no attention to anything around them, and Captain 
Tobi's “ butter tub might have passed and re-passed 
her, had such a feat of sailing been possible for the 
old schooner, without their being aware of the fact. 
It was not until the Silver Fox was within a mile of 
her destination that Master Cushing, who chanced to 
be at the helm just then, awoke to the knowledge that 
the voyage was nearly at an end. 

“ We’re at the mouth of the harbor,” he shouted 
through the engine-room tube to the boys. “ I wish 
we’d kept track of the runnin’ time, for ’cordin’ to my 
224 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


225 

way of thinkin’ no other craft has ever come from 
Barren Island so quickly.” 

It seems as if we hadn’t much more than started,” 
Paul replied in surprise, and then it seemed necessary 
he should go on deck to satisfy himself that the helms- 
man had not made a mistake. 

Very proud were the three when the beautiful ves- 
sel was run alongside the Seaview pier with all the 
fenders out on the starboard side lest the tiniest bit 
of paint should be scraped from the glistening hull, 
and even before the hawsers were stretched the idlers 
of the town came down to inspect the craft, which 
they had seen before but, owing to the caution of the 
ship-keeper, had not been allowed to board. 

It would have been an absolute impossibility to pre- 
vent the visitors from coming over the rail, so eager 
were they to look at a vessel which was more beau- 
tiful than anything they had ever seen, and, under- 
standing that it would be better to control the curious 
ones in some slight degree rather than have them over- 
run the craft, Paul proposed that no more than four 
come aboard at the same time, with the understanding 
that they take especial care in cleaning their boots 
before venturing into the handsomely furnished cabin. 

Surely it appeared as if every able-bodied citizen 
of Seaview was bent on viewing the craft, and after 
nearly an hour had been spent in escorting the visitors 
from the motor room, through the wheel-house to the 
after cabin. Master Cushing said impatiently to Paul : 

At this rate we’ll spend the whole day runnin’ a 
circus, an’ the wind is gettin’ up every minute. 


226 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Wouldn’t it be a good idee for me to tell Billy Mans- 
field what we’re needin’ in way of a cargo? While 
he’s gettin’ the stuff down here, I’ll stand by to watch 
the ship an’ one of you boys go to the telegraph sta- 
tion.” 

To this Paul agreed, and for the first time since 
leaving Barren Island did he give any heed to the i 
weather. It was only necessary he should take one 
long look around in order to be convinced that Zenas 
had not been needlessly disturbed in regard to the 
rising wind. Already a fresh breeze was setting in 
from the north-east, and the gathering clouds told 
that disagreeable weather might be expected within 
the next twenty-four hours. 

“ We must shut off this visiting,” he whispered 
hurriedly to Ned. “ Get rid of this crowd as soon as 
you can, and I’ll run up to our station. It is nearly 
noon, and Mr. Sawtelle will be waiting to hear from 
us.” 

“ All right ; I’ll see to it that no harm is done the 
yacht by this crowd,” Ned replied in a careless tone, 
and then, glancing involuntarily seaward and observ- 
ing the big seas rolling in at the mouth of the harbor, 
he added nervously, “ Come back as soon as you can, 
for we must get under way in a hurry if we count on 
going back to-day.” 

Master Simpson was not disposed, in view of the 
weather conditions, to waste any time; but ran at full 
speed in the direction of the wireless station, passing 
Zenas on the way, he having attended to matters so 
far as Mr. Mansfield’s shop was concerned. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


227 


‘‘ Get a move on, lad, if you count on seein’ Barren 
Island before dark. Mansfield is hustlin’ the stuff 
down, an’ we oughter be out of this harbor inside of 
half an hour.” 

I must call up Mr. Sawtelle before we can leave, 
for his orders were positive as to that,” Paul replied 
without slackening speed, and Master Cushing walked 
at his best pace to the pier, where he unceremoniously 
sent the visitors ashore that he might make ready for 
taking on board the goods which had been purchased. 

It seemed to Paul as if he was forced to spend a 
full half-hour getting the instruments which had re- 
mained idle so long, into working condition, and then 
he began sending out the call for Barren Island, work- 
ing the key and switching in the receiver to listen for 
an answer until no less than thirty minutes more had 
been spent, and by this time he could hear the wind 
howling and singing among the wires of the antenna 
as if a storm was about to. burst. 

Then, just when he had begun to despair of being 
able to get into communication with the island, came 
the answering signal, after which many precious min- 
utes were consumed in getting the instruments in tune. 

'' Why have you waited so long ? ” came the words 
from Mr. Sawtelle. 

“We didn’t get the goods aboard until about an 
hour ago, and I have been trying since then to reach 
you.” 

“ The instrument on the N era was out of order, 
and I had to come up here on the hill. Of course 
you won’t attempt to leave port to-day? ” 


228 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Why not ? ” and even while Paul asked the ques- 
tion he knew to a certainty what the reply would be. 

“ There is a storm close at hand, and the sea is run- 
ning high. I do not question but that your yacht 
would stand up under it; but there is no good reason 
why you should take the chances of straining her. 
You are not needed here particularly, and it is wisest 
to remain where you are until the weather is more 
favorable. What have you learned in regard to 
Bingham ? ” 

Nothing, unless Zenas has had information from 
Mr. Mansfield.” 

‘‘ Spend the remainder of the day making inquiries. 
Do not keep the yacht made fast to the pier, but an- 
chor her stem and stern a short distance out in the 
harbor where there will be no danger of her fouling 
anything. Look well to your moorings. You can get 
provisions in plenty, and won’t suffer.” 

But for the fact that he could hear the howling of 
the wind so plainly, Paul would have argued against 
this command to remain at Seaview. 

At the same time he was eager to try the Silver Fox 
in heavy weather, believing her to be a good sea-boat, 
and the temptation to insist that she could make the 
passage before the storm burst was so great that he 
might have yielded to it if the owner of the Nera had 
not put an end to the conversation by saying through 
the ether: 

“ Call me up at noon to-morrow, for you won’t be 
able to leave port before then. Good-by.” 

Master Simpson knew by the last words that Mr. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


229 


Sawtelle had left the instrument, and it would not be 
possible to get into communication with him until 
another day had come ; therefore he closed the station, 
giving due heed to leaving the apparatus in good order, 
and walked slowly toward the pier. 

Master Cushing saw him while he was yet some dis- 
tance away, and cried impatiently: 

Why don’t you get a move on ? We can’t afford 
to lay here many minutes more if we count on gettin’ 
across before dark.” 

“ That’s just what we don’t count on. Mr. 
Sawtelle’s orders are that we stay here waiting for 
better weather; the yacht is to be moored head and 
stern in the harbor instead of being allowed to stay 
here at the dock.” 

Any fool would know that must be done if we’re 
to ride out a storm,” Zenas said impatiently; “but 
I can’t understand why there’s need of our hangin’ 
on here. We’ll be across before the wind is strong 
enough to hurt.” 

“ We’ve got the orders, and must hold to them,” 
and Paul spoke in a mournful tone, for he, like Master 
Cushing, was eager to try the little craft in heavy 
weather. “ Did you hear anything of John Ed? ” 

“ I declare I forgot all about that old scoundrel ; 
you see I was in such a hurry to get the goods aboard 
that there wasn’t time to waste on such as him.” 

“ You may as well go back to the shop and learn 
what you can. While you’re away Ned and I will run 
out to a safe anchorage, and put her in shape for bad 
weather. Take plenty of time, for you’ve got all the 


230 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


rest of the day before you. It will be a good plan 
to bring with you a supply of provisions, and we’ll see 
what can be done in that fancy kitchen of ours.” 

Perhaps it was this last suggestion which caused 
Zenas to make haste even when there was no necessity 
for so doing, and the boys had hardly more than 
moored the Silver Fox securely a hundred yards from 
the pier, when Master Cushing, literally staggering 
under the weight of many packages, hailed to be taken 
aboard. 

When Paul rowed one of the yacht’s tenders to the 
shore he realized better than before how violent was 
the wind, for he found it a really difficult task to hold 
the light craft on a course against it, while the sea had 
risen so rapidly that the small boat had on board a 
reasonably heavy cargo of water before she was pulled 
in under the lee of the pier. 

It is gettin’ jest a bit lumpy, an’ that’s a fact,” 
Master Cushing said as he assisted in baling the 
tender before putting the stores aboard; ‘‘but all the 
same I know we could have slid across without turnin’ 
a hair.” 

“We might have strained her some, as Mr. Sawtelle 
suggested, and I’d rather lay here a week than do any- 
thing like that. As it is we’ve got a first-class chance 
to learn what we can do in the kitchen, so the time 
won’t be entirely wasted.” 

“ I was thinkin’ of that same, so laid in more, 
perhaps, than we’ll really need,” and Zenas began 
stowing his many packages and bundles. “ Here’s 
beefsteak, potatoes, fresh bread, and flour so we can 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


231 


try our hands at bakin’. Onions, canned milk, coffee, 
an*, unless I’ve made a mistake, everythin’ we’ll need 
if we’re at our moorin’s three or four days.” 

“ What did you hear about John Ed? ” Paul asked 
as the little tender was pulled out from the shelter 
of the pier to make the return trip. 

“ Nothin’ to count. Billy Mansfield hasn’t seen him 
since he put in here to tell where we were; but says 
he heard yesterday that the old villain was up near 
Crow’s Head, bunkin’ in with the lobster catchers 
there. If that’s true, an’ I reckon there ain’t much 
mistake about it, we could easy get our hands on 
him.” 

“ Surely you’re not thinking that we three had better 
tackle such a job again?” Paul asked laughingly. 
‘‘ After our experience it seems as if we should have 
sense enough to leave John Ed alone until we had a 
larger force.” 

“ I’d be willin’ to make another try at it single- 
handed, an’ I’ll promise that he wouldn’t get the best 
of me agin. If we only could lay that old smuggler 
by the heels, without havin’ anybody to help us, it 
would shut Cap’in Tobi’s mouth for good an’ all.” 

“ You are more sore over what the old sailor can 
say, than because of the mischief Bingham did to us,” 
Paul said grimly, and then the conversation ceased be- 
cause both the occupants of the tender had all they 
could do to prevent the little craft from being swamped 
by the heavy seas which were rolling into the mouth 
of the harbor. 

When, after considerable labor and a display of good 


232 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


seamanship, the small boat was alongside the Silver 
Fox, her cargo much the worse for having been wet 
by spray which was blown in veritable clouds from the 
top of the waves, she was taken inboard on the davits 
and securely lashed. Before going below Zenas made 
certain that everything on deck was secured and ready 
for a storm, after which he went into the wheel- 
house, where Ned had taken refuge from the chilling 
blast. 

‘‘ I reckon we’ll hug cover the rest of this day,” 
he said grimly as he wrung the water from his coat. 
“If we’d been wise there would be on board a change 
of do thin’ for all hands ; but as it is I reckon Paul an’ 
me’ll have to start the oil stove in the kitchen in order 
to dry off, for ” 

“ There’s a craft that’s making heavy weather of 
it,” and Ned pointed toward the entrance to the harbor 
where could be seen a power-boat pitching and rolling 
on the waves in a manner which told that she must be 
taking over her rail more water than might be pleasant 
for her crew of one man. “ It looks as if she counted 
on running in here, which is what should be done 
unless her captain wants to take the chances of being 
swamped.” 

After one hasty glance at the laboring craft Master 
Cushing had hurriedly seized the marine glasses from 
the rack on the bulkhead, and was gazing through 
the open window intently, causing Ned to ask with 
mild curiosity: 

“ Did you ever see her before? ” 

“ I reckon I have, an’ surely you ought to know 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


233 

that boat. Take a squint at her,” and Zenas handed 
the glasses to his companion. 

Why, that’s our Hampton, and it’s John Ed at the 
helm ! ” he cried excitedly an instant later. 

** There’s no mistake about it, lad. He’s tryin’ to 
make harbor here, but the wind heads him a bit too 
much. If only he would come in an’ anchor. I’d 
guarantee to get a clutch on him that couldn’t be shaken 
off!” 

Ned shouted for Paul to come on deck, and when 
the lad was in the wheel-house with his comrades, hav- 
ing been told who was handling the craft in the offing, 
the three watched with their “ hearts in their mouths,” 
so to speak, fearing each instant lest the Hampton 
should be swamped. 

Again and again did John Ed strive to make the 
entrance to the harbor, and as often was his boat 
blown off, until after struggling a full half-hour, dur- 
ing the greater portion of which time he was forced 
to work the hand-pump to the best of his ability while 
giving due attention to the helm, the old smuggler 
brought the little craft around at imminent danger of 
her foundering in the trough of the sea, laying a 
northerly course as nearly as possible. 

She won’t live an hour, with the wind rising as 
rapidly as it is ! ” Paul cried as the Hampton boat 
staggered and reeled past the entrance to the harbor, 
the waves seemingly sweeping over her from stem 
to stern. 

‘‘ You can’t drown the old villain so easy as all 
that,” Master Cushing replied vindictively. “ He’ll 


234 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


contrive to get ashore safe an’ sound, no matter what 
kind of weather he runs into; it’s the Hampton boat 
that I’m worryin’ over, ’cause it does look as if she 
might come to the end of her usefulness before a great 
while. Say, lads, how would it do for us to take after 
him this very minute? He’ll be driven ashore or 
swamped within the next hour, an’ we could pick him 
up or lay him by the heels without very much trouble.” 

That is the craziest idea you ever had! ” Ned cried 
impatiently. “ Even though we were willing to risk 
the Silver Fox in such a gale as is likely to be upon us 
within a few hours, we couldn’t come alongside the 
Hampton with the sea running so heavy, and if the 
boat was cast ashore we’d be powerless to get hold 
of Bingham unless we stood more than a fair chance 
of wrecking the yacht.” 

“ I reckon you’re right, lad ; but it does go mightily 
agin the grain to see that old robber so near, an’ yet 
not be raisin’ a finger to give him his proper dose.” 

“There’s one thing about it,” Paul added grimly: 
“ Mr. Sawtelle wanted us to get some information 
concerning Bingham, and we’ve got it without chance 
for mistake.” 

“ Say,” and now Master Cushing gave token of 
having another plan in mind for the discomfiture of 
the smuggler, “ why don’t you run up to your station 
an’ telegraph to the island? They’d be able to come 
out in the Nera, an’ I’m allowin’ Mr. Sawtelle would 
be willin’ to take a good many tough chances for the 
sake of layin’ hands on John Ed. It’s a case of 
runnin’ him down to a dead certainty.” 



"YOU OUGHT TO KNOW THAT BOAT. TAKE A SQUINT AT HER.” 



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FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


235 


“ We couldn’t send a message in such weather, even 
though there might be a chance that any one would be 
at the station on the island,” Paul said decidedly. 
‘‘We may as well make up our minds that we can’t 
lay hands on him — at least, not until the weather 
clears, and try to make the best of it, aggravating 
though it is to be forced to remain idle when he is so 
near.” 

During all this while the Hampton boat was battling 
against the wind and the heavy swell, struggling like 
some live thing to mind the helm, and by aid of the 
glasses it was possible to see that Bingham was labor- 
ing desperately to aid the craft. 

He could not loose his hold of the helm to work 
the hand pump properly, yet it was absolutely necessary 
to free the boat from the water which came over bow 
and rail. 

Now bending forward to pump, and again straight- 
ening his body to meet the wild yawing of the craft, 
he was fully occupied, and however much there was 
of enmity in his heart against the man, Zenas was 
forced to confess that he was showing himself to be 
a good sailor. 

“ There ain’t one man in every hundred on this 
coast who could have kept the Hampton afloat so 
long!” he cried when John Ed skillfully swung the 
little craft around to meet a heavy wave that threatened 
to swamp her. “ In his place I’d be so rattled that 
she’d soon go under. She’ll swim quite a spell longer 
if he don’t lose his head; but what worries me is how 
he’ll make the land. Then’s the time when — Say, 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


236 

boys, we’ve got the old scoundrel this time to a dead 
certainty ! ” and Zenas danced to and fro in the small 
wheel-house triumphantly. 

‘‘ What do you mean ? How have we got him ? ” 
and Paul spoke impatiently, believing Master Cushing 
was indulging in another of his wild schemes impos- 
sible of execution. 

“ Can’t you see that he’s headin’ for Pleasant 
Harbor?” Zenas cried excitedly. “There isn’t an- 
other port on this coast within twenty miles that he 
can get into with the wind holdin’ as it is ! He’ll make 
for the point because he can’t do anythin’ else, an’ it’s 
a case of beachin’ the Hampton, or runnin’ her slap 
into the gut where she’ll be held so fast that nothin’ 
less’n a tug-boat can pull her out. Can’t you see how 
we’ve got him, lads?” and Master Cushing’s excite- 
ment increased until it was with difficulty he could 
speak intelligibly. “ He’ll take up his quarters in 
Sam Bassett’s shanty, ’cause there ain’t any other place 
for him, an’ if we can get there within twenty-four 
hours after this storm clears away, he’s our game ! ” 

Surely it did seem as if this time Zenas had hit upon 
the truth; that all which he had suggested might be 
brought about. There was no question but that 
Bingham must make Pleasant Harbor if the Hampton 
boat could be kept afloat sufficiently long, and once 
there, with the wind coming from the north-east, the 
narrow gut filled with clogging weeds and bushes, or 
the shore of the point itself, were the only places where 
he could hope to make a landing. The one possibility 
was that he might succeed in reaching the mainland 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


237 

south of the point, in which case he would be free 
to go where he pleased. 

We’ve got him this time ! ” Zenas again cried with 
a note of triumph, and Ned could not resist the tempta- 
tion which prompted him to say : 

You were just as certain of him when we started 
for Pleasant Harbor, so I advise you not to count your 
chickens until they are hatched.” 

‘‘ They’re jest the same as out of the shell already, 
an’ if it wasn’t that I made so many kinds of a fool 
of myself the other day. I’d hold to it that we set off 
the minute the wind dies away.” 

And I’d hold to it that we didn’t,” Paul replied 
laughingly. ‘‘ I’ve had all the experience I need in 
hunting down John Ed, and don’t count on getting any 
more. There’s no chance of our being able to come 
into communication with Barren Island until to- 
morrow noon, and perhaps not then unless the weather 
conditions are favorable; but I’ll see to it that at the 
earliest possible moment word is sent as to what you 
believe regarding Bingham’s whereabouts.” 

By this time the Hampton boat was lost to view in 
the distance, and the rain was beginning to fall heavily. 
The Silver Fox rolled considerably even though she 
was sheltered from the full force of the gale, and the 
veriest fresh-water sailor who ever lived would have 
known beyond a doubt that a full north-east storm 
had set in. 

After repeating what he had already said regarding 
the course which John Ed must unquestionably pursue, 
and congratulating himself that the old smuggler’s race. 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


238 

so far as concerned his ability to work further mischief 
on Barren Island, was much the same as run, Master 
Cushing proposed that they go into the kitchen for the 
double purpose of getting warm and preparing dinner. 

It seemed much like children playing at keeping 
house when they began to prepare a hearty meal. 
Everything, even including the cooking utensils, was so 
dainty and so conveniently at hand, that instead of 
being labor, it was real sport to make ready the food. 

Zenas acted the part of chef, while Paul and Ned 
busied themselves with exploring the lockers and stow- 
ing away the provisions, brought from Mr. Mansfield’s, 
until it was almost as if they had forgotten that such 
a disagreeable person as John Ed Bingham ever had 
an existence. 

When the belated dinner had finally been made ready 
to the satisfaction of all, Paul insisted that it should 
be eaten in the kitchen, even though that would be 
inconvenient ; but he was not willing to take any chance 
of soiling the furnishings of the after cabin, nor would 
he consent that the food should be served in the 
delicate china dishes which formed a portion of the 
yacht’s equipment. 

It was a most enjoyable meal, even though the crew 
were hampered in their movements by lack of room 
in which to move about, and when his hunger had 
been appeased Master Cushing would have brought the 
conversation around to Bingham again, but Paul pre- 
vented him by saying in a tone of decision : 

“ We’re not to speak of that old scoundrel again 
to-day. While we're here so snug and comfortable I 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


239 


believe in enjoying it, which can’t be done if we spend 
the time speculating as to how he may be caught, for 
such talk only serves to remind us of what we suffered 
while cooped up in Sam Bassett’s shanty. We’ll turn 
to and wash the dishes, and after the kitchen has been 
cleaned thoroughly, go aft and take our ease. The 
wind howling and the sea rolling in heavily only helps 
prove how comfortable we are; it goes way ahead of 
being on board the Neva, for this yacht belongs to us.” 

Ned was also inclined to enjoy the sense of safety 
and proprietorship, therefore Zenas could not well com- 
plain if he was barred from dwelling on the possibility 
of what might be done to John Ed. He took quite as 
much pride in restoring the kitchen to its former cleanly 
condition as did the two boys, and so particular and 
careful were the three to efface all traces of the late 
culinary operations, that night had come before the 
work had been done to their satisfaction. 

When they went into the main cabin the hanging 
lamps were lighted, the curtains at the windows of the 
deck-house were drawn to give a more cosy appearance 
to the place, and the crew settled themselves down to a 
time of solid enjoyment in their new vessel. 

“If the Hampton boat is wrecked, an’ I allow there’s 
but little doubt she is by this time, you’ll need to use 
this yacht a good bit,” Zenas said after a long time 
of silence. “ Now you can’t afford to knock about 
on this carpet, takin’ the chances of soilin’ the furni- 
ture, so I propose that we buy some stuff from Billy 
Mansfield to spread over everythin’. The deck can 
be covered with canvas, an’ the chairs with somethin’ 


240 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


thinner. I’ll undertake to do all the work ’twixt now 
an’ next spring.” 

Planning the task suggested by Zenas served to 
prevent the thoughts of the Silver Fox's crew from 
harking back to the possible fate of John Ed, and at 
a reasonably early hour in the evening Ned proposed 
that they try the quality of the bunks and bedding 
.by turning in. 

The regular rising and falling of the yacht served 
to rock them to sleep, even though all hands would 
have preferred to remain awake in order to enjoy the 
situation, and it was not until the dawn of another 
day had come that any of the ship’s company were 
conscious of their surroundings. 

Then it was Zenas aroused his companions by the 
announcement that the storm was breaking away, and 
urging them to turn out ” in order to finish the task 
of preparing breakfast before it should be time to go 
into the telegraph station. 

It was no easy matter to see exactly where Master 
Cushing had found cause for his prediction. The 
wind was howling as loudly as on the night previous, 
and the sea ran even higher than before; but Zenas 
professed to discover a rift in the clouds which he 
claimed indicated a change in the weather before 
the tide turned ” again. 

Because of their unwillingness to take the chances 
of soiling any of the yacht’s dainty appointments, the 
boys were a long time making ready the morning 
meal, and no sooner had it been eaten than Zenas 
insisted on Paul’s going at once to the telegraph 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


241 


station, although it yet lacked a full hour of the time 
when Mr. Sawtelle had agreed to be at the island 
instrument. 

'' I’ll set you ashore, an’ Ned an’ me can put this 
’ere kitchen to rights as well as if you had a hand in 
the work, so why should you stay aboard till the very 
last minute ? ” 

After much persuasion Paul did as he was re- 
quested, and when, after rather a wet passage to the 
shore, he finally stood on the pier, Zenas cried as he 
turned the tender toward the yacht: 

“ I reckon it wouldn’t be a bad idee for you to go 
’round by the way of Billy Mansfield’s shop. There’s 
jest a chance that he may have some word about 
John Ed.” 

“ How would it be possible, when there has been 
no craft put in here since Bingham went past the 
harbor? ” 

'' You mustn’t forget that the wireless isn’t the only 
kind of a telegraph along the coast, an’ some word 
may have come since sunrise.” 

Thus it was that Master Simpson visited Mr. 
Mansfield’s shop, where had congregated the usual 
number of idlers, and he was no sooner inside the 
building than the proprietor greeted him with the 
startling question : 

Have you heard about John Ed’s cornin’ to grief? 
He’s run a pretty long race an’ had things mostly his 
way; but the end has come ’cordin’ to all the signs/’ 

“What do you mean?” Paul asked excitedly. 

“ Word was telegraphed in here this mornin’ that 


242 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


the wreck of your Hampton boat had been seen by 
Cap’in Jed Morse ’twixt Pleasant Harbor an’ Goose 
Island. Cap’in Jed rode out the storm back of the 
island, an’ run inter Broad Cove ’bout eight o’clock.” 

Is he certain it was the wreck of our craft he 
saw?” 

The message that came to me was as how the 
name Silver Fox Farm was painted on the port locker, 
an’ she was hove down so far that he could see the 
words plain as the nose on his face. I reckon John 
Ed tried to make his old stampin’ ground on Apple 
Island, an’ run inter the storm.” 

“ We saw him go past the mouth of this harbor a 
little while after noon,” Paul said in a low tone, awed 
not a little by the seeming certainty that his old enemy 
was dead. He tried to get in here ; but the wind 
headed him, and he put her on a northerly course. 
Zenas believed he could make Pleasant Harbor.” ‘ 

It would have been a hard pull, an’ he stood a 
better show of reachin’ Apple Island; but it must be 
that the Hampton went down under him, havin’ been 
stove by the heavy seas,” Mr. Mansfield said solemnly 
and in a tone of conviction. “ John Ed run a mighty 
tough rig in his day, an’ yet I ain’t certain but there 
are worse men than he in this world, bad as he was.” 

Having thus spoken the most charitable word pos- 
sible in behalf of the man whom all believed had gone 
to his last account, Mr. Mansfield turned his attention 
to weighing half a pound of sugar for a small lad who 
had been waiting impatiently to be served. 


CHAPTER XIII 


A FRUITLESS SEARCH 

There was no reason to expect Mr. Sawtelle would 
be at the wireless instrument for half an hour or 
more, and Paul believed that which he had heard was 
so important as to warrant his returning to the pier 
in order to make Zenas acquainted with the supposed 
fact, before making any effort to get into communica- 
tion with the island. 

Therefore it was he retraced his steps with all 
speed, and during at least ten minutes he stood on the 
small wharf shouting at the full strength of his lungs ; 
but the wind, blowing almost directly into the harbor, 
carried his voice inland rather than seaward, and 
Zenas and Ned, who were most likely seated com- 
fortably in the after cabin, were not aware the yacht 
was being hailed till Master Simpson had shouted until 
he was red in the face in addition to being painfully 
hoarse. 

''What’s the matter?” Zenas screamed when he 
finally came on deck, believing some of the towns- 
people were eager to make another inspection of the 
Silver Fox, and, recognizing Paul, he added in sur- 
prise, " Did you get word to Mr. Sawtelle as soon as 
this?” 


243 


244 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Come ashore. I’ve got important news,” Master 
Simpson shouted, and he was forced to repeat the 
words again and again before Zenas understood. 
Then the tender was hauled alongside in a hurry, and 
Master Cushing rowed toward the shore with all 
speed; but not until he was under the lee of the pier 
where a conversation could be carried on with some 
degree of comfort did Paul explain to him that which 
he had heard at Mr. Mansfield’s shop. 

‘‘ So the Hampton boat is a wreck, eh? Well, John 
Ed didn’t get much service out of her, an’ that’s some 
little satisfaction,” Zenas said thoughtfully, and Paul 
added in a solemn tone : 

He might have been alive now, perhaps, if he 
hadn’t stolen her.” 

‘‘Alive now? Why, of course he is! You can’t 
make me believe that the old scoundrel has given up 
the ghost without workin’ more mischief to us of 
Barren Island.” 

“ But Captain Jed ran near enough to the wreck to 
make out the words Silver Fox Farm which you 
painted on the port locker, so there can be no doubt 
but that John Ed Bingham was drowned, for he 
couldn’t have made Pleasant Harbor, as Mr. Mansfield 
figures it.” 

“ I wouldn’t believe he was dead if all the boats on 
this coast had been wrecked,” Zenas replied doggedly. 
“ I tell you what it is, Paul Simpson, we don’t get rid 
of the old smuggler so easy as all that; he’s stowed 
away in some snug place, an’ will come out when he 
gets good an’ ready.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


245 

“ Surely you can’t believe he got into Pleasant 
Harbor, and let the Hampton go adrift? ” 

That’s where he is this very minute, with another 
pot of beans stewin’ on the stove. He might have 
been near enough to swim ashore when the boat was 
swamped, or he might have shoved her on the peak 
of the point, an’ let her drift away bein’ much the 
same as a wreck. There’s a dozen ways he could 
have saved his skin, an’ you can set it down as a fact 
that he mittened on to one of ’em ! ” 

But Mr. Mansfield says ” 

“ I don’t care what anybody says,” Master Cushing 
cried impatiently. ‘‘ You can’t make me believe that 
John Ed is dead till I see him buried, an’ even then 
I’ll expect him to sneak out somehow. You’d better 
get up to the station an’ tell that yarn to Mr. Sawtelle, 
who most likely will believe it; but I won’t.” 

Then Zenas, without waiting for further argument, 
pulled toward the yacht, and Paul could do no less 
than act upon his suggestion, for it was now so near 
noon that the owner of the N era was most likely wait- 
ing for a call from the mainland. This was proven a 
fact ten minutes later when the reply came through 
the ether almost immediately after Master Simpson 
began working the key. 

As was only natural, the first information sent 
across to the island was in regard to the supposed 
fate of the old smuggler, and Paul told the story at 
length regardless of the time required to write 'so 
many words. When he had come to an end Mr. 
Sawtelle asked : 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


246 

“What does Zenas say about it?” 

“ He won’t believe that Bingham is dead.” 

“ Could the old fellow have made Pleasant 
Harbor? ” 

“ Mr. Mansfield declares that he couldn’t, with the 
wind as it was, while Zenas insists he is there this 
minute stewing beans in Sam Bassett’s shanty.” 

“ What about the weather on the coast? ” 

“ The wind is fining down, and the people here 
believe the storm is over, though it is blowing half a 
gale now.” 

“ Remain at anchor until we arrive.” 

“ Are you coming across? ” Paul asked in surprise, 
and Mr. Sawtelle replied: 

“ We’ll come over in the N era and have a look in 
at Pleasant Harbor. I’m not saying I believe that 
Bingham is alive; but we will make certain of his 
death before allowing that it is a fact.” 

“Was any damage done at the island during the 
gale?” 

“ Captain Tobi’s schooner is aground again, owing 
to his neglecting to let go a second anchor. She has 
drifted bow on to the shore, but can readily be floated 
at the next run of high tides, I believe, unless we have 
a westerly storm before then. Wait for us. Good-by.” 

It would have pleased Paul if he could have asked 
more questions regarding affairs at Barren Island; 
but Mr. Sawtelle had brought the wireless conversa- 
tion to an abrupt and decided close, therefore he could 
do no less than return to the yacht after having cared 
for the apparatus. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


247 


This time Zenas was in the wheel-house watching 
for his coming, and the lad was not forced to wait 
many seconds for the tender. He opened his budget 
of news before gaining the deck of the Silver Fox, 
so excited was he regarding the coming of the 
Nera, and Master Cushing said in a tone of satis- 
faction : 

“ Fm glad Mr. Sawtelle is gettin’ his wits about 
him. I was afraid he'd agree with Billy Mansfield 
that John Ed had been drowned, an' let that end the 
matter. I can't see, though, why he should come over 
with the Nera. If Bingham is at Sam Bassett's shanty 
we three can lay him by the heels as well as a dozen 
men could.^' 

“ After our not very pleasant experience in the 
work of capturing the old smuggler, we can't have too 
large a force, according to my way of thinking; but I 
believe we will waste our time, for the man must be 
dead." 

You'll find him as lively as a cricket, an' that's no 
dream," Zenas replied confidently as he brought the 
tender alongside the little yacht, where it was possible 
by quick and skillful work to gain the deck even though 
the sea was running high, without damage to either 
craft. 

Then, as a matter of course, Paul repeated that 
which he had learned, to Ned, adding the information 
which as yet he had not given to Zenas, regarding 
Captain Tobi's schooner, and this last gave Master 
Cushing unbounded satisfaction. 

It serves him all right," he cried gleefully. 


248 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ Too bloomin’ lazy to let go a second anchor, or else 
he was on shore gobblin’ down rock cod an’ salt pork, 
an’ his crew were too dumb to give any heed to what 
was goin’ on. Why did the old pirate go back after 
we left Seaview, except that he was the same as 
burstin’ to tell what John Ed had done to us, an’ now 
his butter tub is laid up agin. I’m jolly glad he’s had 
another dose, for perhaps it may teach him to be more 
decent.” 

The boys were not inclined to rejoice so loudly over 
Captain Tobi’s misfortune, for it did not appear seemly 
to give way to exultation when another was in trouble, 
and Paul quickly interrupted Zenas in his noisy mirth 
by suggesting that they be ready to get under way 
immediately the Neva hove in sight. 

When everything had been snugged down pre- 
paratory to a voyage outside while the sea was running 
so high, the three went into the wheel-house where 
they could have an uninterrupted view of the ocean 
in the direction of Barren Island, and there they re- 
mained, one or the other with the glasses at his eyes, 
until night came without getting a glimpse of the 
Neva. Meanwhile, as Zenas had predicted, the storm 
was dying away, and by sunset there was no more 
than a good sailing breeze stirring. 

They’re bound to give John Ed every chance,” 
Master Cushing said discontentedly when it seemed 
positive the yacht would not arrive before another 
day had come. “We ought’er be in Pleasant Harbor 
this very minute, instead of foolin’ ’round here till 
there isn’t a breath of air movin’, an’ that’s where we 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 249 

would be if you hadn’t explained everything to Mr. 
Sawtelle.” 

‘‘ Neither Ned nor I would have been willing to 
make the venture alone, for we’ve had enough of such 
business,” and Paul spoke curtly, not well pleased to 
be thus reproached by the one who had been almost 
wholly responsible for their virtual imprisonment in 
Sam Bassett’s shanty. “ I fail to see what harm can 
come of our waiting until morning. If the Hampton 
boat is wrecked, and John Ed is really on the point, 
he’ll be forced to stay there till some craft can be 
hailed to take him off.” 

“ What about the dory ? She was new, an’ would 
swim even after bein’ filled to the gunwales with 
water. He may have got ashore in her.” 

^Hf he did, it isn’t likely he’ll be in a hurry to 
venture away from the point, more especially since he 
chose that place for his winter quarters. Let’s get 
supper an’ turn in; there’s nothing to be gained by 
guessing at what will be made plain within the next 
twenty-four hours.” 

Ned was more than willing to act upon this sugges- 
tion, and Zenas could do no less than follow the boys 
below, where a hearty if not elaborate meal was 
prepared and eaten, after which all hands sought the 
comfort and repose of their bunks. Master Cushing 
seeming to be almost in a sulky mood because of the 
enforced delay. 

The next morning dawned bright; the sky was 
cloudless, and the sea had subsided in a marked de- 
gree. It was a perfect winter’s day, and whether 


250 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


John Ed was found or not, the crew of the Silver Fox 
had every reason to anticipate a pleasant cruise. 

Breakfast was hurriedly eaten ; one anchor weighed, 
and every preparation made for a sudden start before 
the lads went into the wheel-house to watch for the 
Neva. 

Mr. Sawtelle’s craft hove in sight before nine 
o’clock, and the Silver Fox was run out to meet her, 
Zenas urging Paul to put on all the power possible, as 
if believing even the minutes were precious in the 
chase which he firmly believed would end with the 
capture of the old smuggler if no time was wasted. 

The Nera's motor was stopped as the Silver Fox 
came down toward her, and when the two craft were 
within a hundred yards of each other Master Cushing 
gave vent to a cry of anger so loud that Paul in the 
motor-room could hear it with reasonable distinctness. 

“ What’s the trouble ? ” he asked hurriedly as he 
came on deck, the power having been switched off, and 
Zenas cried as he pointed toward the larger yacht : 

Look there ! At the wheel ! They’ve brought that 
old pirate with ’em as if he was the only person that 
could handle John Ed, an’ how he will swagger, 
allowin’ that we’re under his command. If you hadn’t 
been so foolish as to tell Mr. Sawtelle about the wreck 
of the Hampton, we might’er worked this traverse 
ourselves ” 

“ Ahoy on the Silver Fox ! came the hail, and Paul 
went well into the bow of the yacht to reply. 

“Have you heard anything new?” Mr. Sawtelle 
asked. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


251 

‘‘ Nothing since I telegraphed you; but we didn’t go 
ashore this morning.” 

“ You had better do so now, for it may be that Mr. 
Mansfield has had further information which will be 
of value to us. We will lie here till you come back, 
and then run in our wake, for Captain Tobi knows 
the channels of Pleasant Harbor and will act as pilot.” 

“I’ll agree to put you anywhere you say without 
rufflin’ a hair, for I know them waters as well as 
Daniel Downs does his back yard,” came in hurricane 
notes from the Neva's wheel-house, and Zenas ex- 
claimed in a smothered tone: 

“ Hear the old idjut puttin’ on airs as if he was the 
only man ’round here who could put a craft inter 
Pleasant Harbor! There are no channels, for it’s all 
deep water within a dozen yards of the shore, an’ 
he’s made Mr. Sawtelle believe that a pilot is needed 
so’s he can go to Seaview crowin’ that they had to call 
on him when it was a case of gettin’ hold of John 
Ed!” 

“ It hasn’t yet been proved that Bingham is at Sam 
Bassett’s shanty, so you needn’t shed too many tears 
over what crowing Captain Tobi may do,” Paul said 
laughingly as he turned to go into the motor-room. 
“ I’ll start the screw, and we’ll make quick work of 
finding out if Mr. Mansfield knows anything more 
about John Ed than he did last night.” 

Ten minutes later the Silver Fox was made fast 
to the pier, and Zenas was hurrying up the hill to the 
shop, grumbling to himself all the while because his 
old enemy was to take part in the chase. 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


252 

“ Another half-hour wasted,” Master Cushing 
shouted as he boarded the yacht on his return, after 
having been absent no more than ten minutes. Billy 
Mansfield hasn’t heard anythin’ more, an’ he’s cocksure 
John Ed was drowned. Now I reckon there’s no 
reason why we should be coolin’ our heels any longer, 
so we’d best run out an’ let that fat id jut swell up fit 
to burst ’cause he’s the same as in command of both 
yachts.” 

'' You’ll find that Mr. Sawtelle is in charge even if 
he has taken Captain Tobi on as pilot,” Paul replied 
laughingly, and as soon as the hawsers could be cast 
off the Silver Fox was gliding like a spirit out of the 
harbor. 

“ Follow us,” Mr. Sawtelle cried when Zenas re- 
ported that there was nothing new in regard to 
Bingham. Captain Tobi will pilot us.” 

‘‘ You’re needin’ a pilot for Pleasant Harbor jest 
about as much as you’d need a guide to show the way 
from Daniel Downs’s house to the wireless station,” 
Master Cushing said in a low tone, but yet sufficiently 
loud to be heard by those aboard the Nera, and the 
old sailor shouted in a rage; 

“If you’d had a real sailorman with you when you 
went in with the Hampton boat, that craft might be 
afloat an’ in Barren Island harbor this very minute.” 

“ An’ if that had been the case we wouldn’t have 
let her be blown ashore the second time for lack of 
another harbor,” Zenas retorted, and Ned whispered: 

“ Be careful, Zenas, or Mr. Sawtelle may get angry 
and refuse to let us go with him.” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


253 


At the same moment it could be seen that the owner 
of the Nera was talking earnestly if not sharply to his 
pilot, and thus was silence, without friendship, restored 
for the time being. 

The Nera was sent ahead at full speed, and Master 
Cushing swung the Silver Fox in astern, muttering 
angrily as he did so, until both yachts were on the 
direct course to Pleasant Harbor, five miles away. 

Twice during the half-hour that elapsed did Paul 
come on deck to see how matters were progressing, 
and each time Master Cushing would have made bitter 
complaint because of being forced to follow, rather 
than lead. Captain Tobi; but the lad refused to listen to 
him, saying curtly: 

It is for Mr. Sawtelle or father to say what shall 
be done, and who is to lead, therefore the sooner you 
look pleasant, making the best of matters, the quicker 
you’ll be in shape to chase John Ed, for I’m allowing 
that we’ll be the ones to go ashore first because this 
craft can venture in nearer the point before anchor- 
ing.” 

'' Are all three to make a try for the old scoundrel, 
leavin’ the yacht to take care of herself? ” 

‘‘We won’t play that fool trick again. When Mr. 
Sawtelle gives the word you shall take the lead; Ned 
and I will decide between ourselves as to who is to go 
with you.” 

The Nera slowed down to a full stop when she was 
within half a mile of the shore, and as the Silver Fox 
ran alongside Mr. Sawtelle cried out that he would 
come on board. 


254 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Zenas and I, with perhaps one of you lads, will 
be force enough to handle our friend Bingham, who, 
if he is on the point, knows full well why we have 
come 

Ain’t I to have any hand in trussin’ up the man 
who is still owin’ me for the Zoe?” Captain Tobi 
cried hoarsely as his employer leaped from the rail of 
the larger yacht to the deck of the Silver Fox, which 
had been run close aboard. 

‘‘ You are to remain where you are, in charge of the 
Neva,” was the curt reply, and one could almost fancy 
that Zenas was hugging himself because the old sailor 
was thus debarred from taking part in what might 
prove to be quite a chase. 

Under Mr. Sawtelle’s direction the Silver Fox was 
run within fifty yards of the point, and there moored 
by one small anchor. Ned had already announced 
that he was not eager to visit the scene of his late 
imprisonment, therefore Paul went into the tender 
with the owner of the Nera and Master Cushing. 

One of you will lead the way directly to the 
shanty* If Bingham is here he will not try to steal 
the yacht even though there is no one aboard but Ned. 
In case he did succeed in getting ashore here from the 
wreck of the Hampton boat, we shall see signs of his 
having been in the hut,” and by the time Mr. Sawtelle 
ceased speaking Zenas had run the bow of the tender 
up on the shore. 

Then it was that Master Cushing took the lead, and 
advanced cautiously as if expecting each instant to be 
confronted by John Ed, until they arrived at Sam 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


255 

Bassett’s shanty, where a grievous disappointment 
awaited them. 

There were no signs that any person had visited the 
place since the prisoners were released by Captain 
Tobi. The pot of beans yet remained on the stove; 
the door was open; the wind had found free entrance 
during the storm, and the interior was littered with 
leaves and twigs in such a manner as told beyond a 
question that the building had had no occupant at least 
within the past thirty-six hours. 

“ It is positive that he hasn’t been here,” Mr. 
Sawtelle said after a single glance inside the hut, and 
Paul added: 

The place is exactly as we left it, except for 
what has been done by the storm, which must have 
had full sweep here, for the bedding is soaked with 
water.” 

Even Zenas was forced to admit that John Ed could 
not have found a refuge on the point, and silently 
followed Mr. Sawtelle as he led the way back to where 
the tender had been hauled up on the shore. 

'' What’s the matter ? ” Captain Tobi roared as the 
little company came in view. 

There has been no one here since the gale began,” 
Mr. Sawtelle replied. It must be that Bingham was 
drowned when the Hampton boat went to pieces, or 
else he succeeded in landing elsewhere.” 

You haven’t spent any great time huntin’ for him. 
I know that villain too well to believe he’s gone under, 
for them who are born to be hanged will never be 
drowned, an’ if so be I’m under orders like any fresh- 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


256 

water sailor of Zenas Cushin’s kind, I’ll ask for per- 
mission to go ashore so’s to look the ground over for 
myself. It ain’t any two to one that I shan’t be able 
to snake the old fox out of his hidin’ place.” 

'' Come ashore in the dory, if you wish ; but don’t 
spend too much time hunting for what isn’t here, 
because after wasting half a day in a wild-goose chase, 
it stands us in hand to get back to Barren Island as 
soon as may be,” and Mr. Sawtelle added in a low 
tone to Paul, ‘‘ I’m going back with you lads in order 
to see what kind of a craft the Silver Fox is.” 

“ She will do better than the Neva without being 
pushed,” Paul replied proudly, and then he followed 
the others into the tender just as Captain Tobi put off 
in the dory. 

The old sailor spent no less than thirty minutes 
roaming around the point, puffing and blowing as he 
forced his way amid the stunted trees and bushes that 
were dripping water from every branch and leaf, and 
when he appeared on the beach once more, looking 
much the worse for wear, he pushed off the dory in 
silence, even refusing to reply to the engineer who 
laughingly asked him why he hadn’t brought John Ed 
out from his hiding-place. 

You may follow us. Captain Tobi,” Mr. Sawtelle 
shouted when the old sailor was once more on the 
Neva's deck, and this command evidently gave Zenas 
no little pleasure, for he said when the anchor had 
been weighed and he stood at the wheel ready for the 
motor to be started : 

“ Now we’ll show that fat bunch of wind what it is 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


257 

to steer a straight course. Coming down the Nera 
swung in an’ out as if a fiddler was at the helm.” 

Mr. Sawtelle examined the yacht from stem to stern 
as she was gotten under way, and after doing so 
stopped in the motor-room to say, much to the delight 
of Paul; 

‘‘ I have seen a good many pleasure boats, and owned 
not a few myself ; but I must confess that this one is 
way ahead of anything I ever looked at.” 

She’s a daisy, and steers like one,” Master Simpson 
replied proudly. I can turn a square corner with 
her, and if you’ll take a look astern you’ll see that 
we’re making better time than your yacht, and I 
haven’t tried to push her.” 

The owner of the Nera was lavish of praise as he 
went on deck once more, followed by both the boys, 
and stood by the side of Zenas at the wheel, watching 
with a seaman’s eye the movements of the dainty 
craft. 

I reckon you believe now that Bingham is some- 
where at the bottom of the sea?” Master Cushing 
suggested after a long time of silence, and Mr. Sawtelle 
replied confidently : 

There can be no question about it in view of all the 
information we have had. Captain Tobi insists that 
he could not have made port during the storm at any 
other place than Pleasant Harbor, and the wreck of the 
Hampton boat seems good proof that he didn’t succeed 
in gaining the mainland at that place, otherwise his 
craft would have been run ashore and remained 
there.” 


258 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Then you’ll give over huntin’ for him ? ” 

“ I most certainly shall. While we knew he was in 
condition to do mischief, I decided to devote all my 
energies to finding him; but now it is positive he has 
been drowned we need not think of him again. The 
Smuggler is nearly in condition for cruising, and we 
will take advantage of every fair day to try her 
out.” 

“ You’ll be makin’ a big mistake, sir, if you lay still 
in the belief that John Ed ain’t in this ’ere world,” 
Zenas said doggedly. “ He’ll turn up some fine day 
an’ show his hand, or I’ll agree to make fast friends 
with that old pirate who is throwin’ his chest out at the 
wheel of the Nera as if he was the only thing in the 
way of a sailor to be found on the coast.” 

We will cease speaking of Bingham,” Mr. Sawtelle 
said gruffly as if the subject had become distasteful. 
'' I am convinced that he is dead, and do not propose 
to hear more regarding him.” 

Master Cushing closed his lips tightly, like one who 
finds it difficult to refrain from making a hasty reply, 
and again the owner of the Nera gave all his attention 
to the sailing qualities of the Silver Fox, 

When the two yachts were off Seaview, Captain 
Tobi hailed to know if they were to enter the port, and 
his employer speedily gave him to understand that 
there would be no halt until Barren Island harbor was 
gained. 

“ There’s a chance we could pick up a word here 
an’ there about John Ed,” the old fellow persisted, and 
Mr. Sawtelle answered him much as he had Zenas, to 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


259 

the effect that the name of the smuggler was not to 
be spoken again in his hearing. 

“ All the same he’s alive an’ kickin’, or my name 
ain’t Tobias,” Captain Tobi persisted as with a very 
poor grace he swung the Neva on a direct course 
for the home port. 

It was hardly more than an hour past noon when the 
two yachts were safely moored in the small harbor, 
and instead of answering the cook’s summons to dinner 
aboard the Neva Master Cushing insisted on going 
ashore without delay. 

“ What have you got on hand so important that it 
can’t be delayed until we have had something to eat ? ” 
Ned asked curiously. 

Well, you see it’s like this, lad,” Zenas replied 
as he went over the rail into the tender. That old 
pirate will stay on board the Neva long enough to fill 
himself up, even though he claims that he don’t like 
the fancy cookin’. That’ll give me nigh to an hour to 
talk with Daniel Downs before I’m interrupted by the 
howler.” 

“ What have you to say to Mr. Downs ? ” 

I’m countin’ on tellin’ him what we’ve heard, an’ 
askin’ his honest opinion as to whether John Ed is 
under the sea or on top of it. When that’s been done 
I’ll agree to obey Mr. Sawtelle’s orders, an’ stop talkin’ 
about the old smuggler.” 

Both the boys were so eager to hear what Daniel 
Downs might have to say on the subject that they were 
willing to eat a cold dinner in order to be present at 
the interview, and the three started up the hill toward 


26 o 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


the wireless station just as the farmer came out of his 
house, intent, most likely, on hearing why the Nera 
left port so suddenly. 

Got back, eh? ” Mr. Downs asked as he halted in 
front of the newcomers. When you didn’t come 
back before the storm struck, I kind’er counted that 
John Ed had got hold of you agin.” 

‘Hf Mr. Sawtelle is in the right we needn’t bother 
our heads any more over what Bingham may be able 
to do,” and then Zenas told in detail all that had been 
heard and seen since the Silver Fox arrived at Sea- 
view. 

Mr. Downs listened in rapt attention until the story 
was brought to a close, and then said as he rubbed his 
chin reflectively : 

Of course John Ed must have been in the Hampton 
boat when she was wrecked, ’cause you saw him there, 
havin’ all he could do to hold his own against the wind 
an’ sea; but when it comes to your sayin’ that he’s 
dead, jest on account of bein’ in a tight place. I’m goin’ 
to allow that you’re all wrong. You can’t kill sich 
as he so easy, an’ them as settles down with the idee 
that the old villain is out of it for good an’ all, will 
find themselves mistaken,” and Daniel turned, retrac- 
ing his steps slowly as if in deep thought. 


CHAPTER XIV, 


AIRSHIP TELEGRAPHY 

Not until he had learned what might be Daniel 
Downs’s opinion as to the fate of John Ed did Zenas 
give heed to Captain Tobi’s schooner; but now as he 
and the boys retraced their steps to the shore, she 
loomed up directly in front of them. The old craft 
had gone ashore head on, with no less than a third of 
her keel high and dry, and Zenas said thoughtfully as 
he walked slowly around the bow, noting how fast she 
was held by the sand : 

“ Unless Mr. Sawtelle is so foolish as to send for 
another tug-boat, this old butter tub will hang where 
she is until another high course of tides, which ain’t 
due for quite a spell.” 

Couldn’t an anchor be carried out astern, and by 
keeping the hawser hove tight, work her back a 
bit?” 

Of course that could be done, lad; but I’m thinkin’ 
the old pirate won’t strain himself very much so long 
as Daniel’s rock cod an’ salt pork holds out. He’ll 
hang ’round here bellowin’, waitin’ for somebody to do 
the greater part of the work while he stands back an’ 
gives orders that nobody could carry out.” 

Hearing the voices near at hand, one of the 
schooner’s crew showed his head just above the comb- 
261 


262 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


ing of the after companionway, and Zenas hailed him 
gruffly : 

“ What were you fellows doin’ when this ’ere craft 
came ashore? Couldn’t you get out a spare anchor? ” 
“ Cap’in Tobi didn’t give any orders. He was 
ashore, an’ if we’d taken it on ourselves to even so 
much as raise a hand, he’d kicked up the worst kind 
of a row, allowin’ that there wasn’t need of any 
sich nonsense.” 

That’s what he would,” Master Cushing agreed 
heartily. ‘‘ Well, now that you’re held here quite 
a spell, I allow you fellows will live aboard, eh ? ” 

“ The cap’in said he counted on takin’ that new 
boat of yours, an’ carryin’ us across to Seaview, seein’s 
how he couldn’t afford to keep cats what didn’t have a 
chance to catch mice.” 

Take the Silver Fox! ” Paul cried sharply. ‘‘ He 
needn’t get any such idea as that in his head, for he 
won’t have the craft, and that’s positive. His schooner 
may lie here till next spring, with you fellows aboard 
of her, before we’ll allow him to use our yacht.” 

“ Don’t trouble your head about it, lad,” Zenas said 
soothingly. You can count on my keepin’ a fairly 
sharp lookout on what the old pirate may do, an’ it’ll 
go hard with him if he attempts to step foot on your 
boat. Step out a bit lively now, an’ we’ll get what 
Cap’in Tobi has left of the dinner.” 

The owner of the “ butter tub ” was just coming on 
deck when the boys pulled the Silver Fox’s tender 
alongside the Nera, and with the air of a lord pro- 
prietor he cried out : 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


263 

‘‘ I reckon you can set me ashore now, Zenas 
Cushin’, seein’s how I ain’t needed any more to 
straighten out your foolishness.” 

** You’ll set yourself ashore if you get there to-day, 
an’ you won’t use this tender either; she’s too light a 
craft for all that fat of yours,” Master Cushing said as 
he came over the rail and proceeded to make the little 
boat fast with unusual care, hauling her well forward 
where Captain Tobi could not come at her without 
considerable inconvenience. 

Just for an instant Paul and Ned believed that the 
old sailor would attempt to take possession of the 
tender by force, and both stood by ready to resist any 
such effort, which may have caused him to reconsider 
his purpose, if indeed the idea had been in his mind. 
While one might have counted ten he stood glaring 
at Zenas, after which he raised his voice in tempest- 
like notes as he shouted for Daniel or one of his sons 
to come out with a dory. 

Can’t you see that there isn’t a boat on the beach ? ” 
Zenas asked in a tone of irritation. “If you want 
to strike the land you’ll have to use the dory that’s 
towin’ astern of the Nera, for she’s the only spare 
craft here. It won’t do you the least little bit of harm 
to work a pair of oars.” 

The old sailor had no idea of rowing a boat, even 
though it might be for his own convenience; but, 
muttering something about “ upstarts,” which, for- 
tunately, Zenas did not distinguish, he went into the 
motor-room, and Master Cushing said fretfully: 

“ Now he has gone to coax the engineer into waitin’ 


264 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


upon him! If I had my way the old pirate wouldn’t 
be allowed to move around this ’ere harbor unless he 
pulled his own boat.” 

The appearance of the cook, with the warning that 
unless Zenas and the boys made haste they would be 
deprived of dinner, caused Master Cushing to go below 
very quickly; but at intervals of five minutes he crept 
up the companion way to make certain Captain Tobi 
did not venture to make use of the Silver Fox's tender. 

If the owners of Barren Island had heard the con- 
troversy on deck, they gave no intimation of such fact. 
Mr. Sawtelle was explaining to his partner what he 
proposed to do in the way of trying out the Smuggler, 
and continued speaking without apparently giving heed 
to the late comers. 

“ It is my purpose to equip the Silver Fox with wire- 
less apparatus, believing her to be more speedy than the 
Nera, and with her on the sea while we navigate the 
air, some very interesting experiments may be made.” 

‘‘Are you going out soon, sir?” Paul ventured to 
ask. 

“ On the next calm day. When you have eaten 
dinner it will be well to visit the hangar in order to see 
the contrivance we have rigged for pulling the airship 
into the open air. As we have arranged it, the crew 
of the ship can not only haul her out, but set her free 
without leaving their stations in the car.” 

Then Mr. Sawtelle, making a rough chart of the 
coast on a bit of paper, mapped out the course he in- 
tended to sail, explaining how the speed of the 
Smuggler might be checked when she was at a suf- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


265 

ficient altitude, in order to allow the small yacht to 
keep pace with her, and, interested though they were, 
the boys were beginning to tire of the subject when a 
loud hail from the shore caused the occupants of the 
saloon to hasten on deck. 

Ahoy on the Nera! Daniel Downs was shouting 
at the full strength of his lungs, at the same time 
glancing over his shoulder as if fearing some one might 
creep up on him to his harm. 

“ Well, what’s the matter? ” Mr. Simpson asked as 
Daniel continued to shout, ignorant that the crew of 
the yacht had come on deck. 

“ I wish you’d come ashore, sir. There’s somethin’ 
the matter with the foxes, as nigh as I can make out. 
I jest went up to feed ’em, an’ they’re wild as hawks, 
till it seems certain they’ve been chased or frightened.” 

“ Have your boys been in the woods lately ? ” 

ISTo, sir, an’ that I can swear to. Sam an’ Ernest 
haven’t been outside the house except when they were 
fishin’.” 

This was the first time since the middle of the sum- 
mer that any such alarm had been given. When he 
had last seen any of his valuable animals they had been 
quiet and contented, seemingly tame as kittens, and the 
news brought by Mr. Downs disturbed the owners of 
the island greatly. 

Hurriedly Mr. Simpson ordered the boys to haul 
the tender alongside, and proposed that they should go 
on shore with him, while Mr. Sawtelle announced that 
he would go to the hangar, where he could be found in 
case his services might be needed. 


266 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


‘‘ I don’t fancy the matter is as serious as Daniel 
makes it seem,” he said carelessly as his partner went 
over the rail. “ Most likely the storm stirred them up 
a bit, for there’s nothing else around here to make 
trouble, if it is true that the Downs boys haven’t been 
in the woods.” 

Zenas pulled the tender, with the boys in the bow 
and Mr. Simpson aft, while Mr. Downs waited on the 
shore to explain more in detail what he had seen; but 
his employer gave little heed to his words. He made 
all speed toward that portion of the island devoted to 
the foxes, and on arriving within the shelter of the 
trees it was possible to see that Daniel had not given a 
needless alarm. 

Now and then as they advanced, they saw a dark 
form running swiftly to gain a hiding-place, and, cau- 
tiously as the little company might move, they were 
unable to have a clear view of a single animal, whereas 
a few days previous it was possible to watch the beauti- 
ful creatures at play without seemingly disturbing 
them. 

It looks as if they’d been run mighty hard,” Master 
Cushing said after a vain effort to creep up on one of 
the animals. “ It ain’t so very long since I could al- 
most put my hand on the old ones, an’ I can’t believe 
they’ve been frightened by the storm, ’cause it stands 
to reason they’d been in their holes when the gale was 
ragin’.” 

Mr. Simpson made no reply. He was seriously dis- 
turbed in mind, and understood that unless it should be 
possible to learn what had caused the trouble, his ven- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 267 

ture of silver fox farming would be a disastrous 
failure. 

He had invested a large amount of money, which 
was of more importance to him than to a wealthy man 
like Mr. Sawtelle who would willingly have sacrificed 
all the animals in order to produce a new model of an 
airship, and all these evidences that the foxes had been 
frightened at a time when it seemed positive there could 
be no strangers on the island, demanded immediate 
attention. 

“ There is nothing we can do, except to assure our- 
selves that none of the Downs family, or our own 
crew, venture within the woods unless to feed the ani- 
mals,’’ he said after a long time of silence. ‘‘ We’ll go 
over to the hangar and have a talk with Sawtelle.” 

During all this while Daniel Downs had not ven- 
tured to speak. He had followed on the heels of the 
boys when they entered the woods, and, as a matter of 
course, had additional proof that the foxes were wilder 
than should have been the case, yet not until Mr. 
Simpson was closeted with his partner in the office of 
the “ hotel ” did he make a suggestion. Then it was 
to whisper in Master Cushing’s ear : 

“ Do you have any idee, Zenas, that this ’ere is some 
of John Ed’s work? ” 

“ It can’t be, Daniel,” was the emphatic reply. “ I’m 
as ready as you are to believe that the old villain can 
do considerable that would be beyond any other man; 
but it ain’t possible Bingham could be here. We saw 
him sail past Seaview harbor with the Hampton boat 
much the same as founderin’, headin’ a northerly 


268 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


course. Even a witch wouldn’t have been able to make 
Barren Island with the wind as it was.” 

Then what has done the mischief ? ” Mr. Downs 
asked helplessly, and Zenas replied in a tone of deepest 
perplexity : 

Blest if I know; I’m beginnin’ to get the idee that 
this ’ere island ain’t a very healthy place for man or 
beast.” 

Half an hour passed before Mr. Simpson re-ap- 
peared. Daniel Downs had gone to his home wearing 
an air of dejection, and Sam and Ernest could be seen 
lounging in the doorway of the shed as if seriously 
disturbed in mind. 

Could they have been the ones to work the mis- 
chief?” Paul whispered as all his suspicions, of the 
summer came back like a flash. 

It’s hard tellin’ what they might or might not do, 
lad. I can’t believe they’d set about doin’ real harm, 
’cause you see they couldn’t gain anythin’ by it ; but if 
John Ed ” 

“Don’t, Zenas, don’t!” Ned cried in real distress. 
“ You know the old smuggler can’t be mixed up in 
this, because as you told Mr. Downs, it wouldn’t have 
been possible for him to get back here after we saw 
him off Seaview, and it’s childish to hark back to him 
whenever anything disagreeable occurs.” 

If Zenas had any reply to make there was no op- 
portunity, for at this moment Mr. Simpson came up, 
an expression of deepest anxiety on his face as he 
said: 

“We have decided that there is nothing to be done 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 269 

save keep sharp watch over the foxes, and thus, per- 
haps, learn the cause of the disturbance. From now 
on you three will move cautiously about during all the 
hours of daylight, taking due care not to go among 
the trees save it should become absolutely necessary. 
We do not believe there are any strangers on the 
island, and feel convinced that the trouble may be 
attributed to natural causes.’' 

What about the cruise in the airship which Mr. 
Sawtelle was speaking of at the dinner-table?” Paul 
asked. 

“ That is to come off on the first fair day, and until 
then it shall be your business to make diligent search 
of the island.” 

When the boys were left alone with Zenas, Mr. 
Simpson having returned to the hotel,” Master 
Cushing said with an air of authority : 

I reckon you lads had better skirt along the shore, 
keepin’ an eye out on everythin’ that looks a bit 
strange, an’ while you’re doin’ that I count on hangin’ 
’round where I can see what Sam an’ Ernest are 
about. Even if I don’t allow that they’re to blame, 
it won’t do any harm to keep ’em in sight.” 

Then Zenas lounged away in the direction of the 
Downs home as if bent simply on passing the time, 
and the two boys began circling around the island, 
keeping well outside the line of foliage. 

When night had come, and all belonging to the Nera 
were on board ready for supper, no news of im- 
portance had been learned. Zenas reported that he 
had kept watch over Sam and Ernest, but without 


270 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


seeing any suspicious move on their part, while Paul 
and Ned had seen nothing either ashore or afloat. 
The foxes had not shown themselves even at their 
regular feeding-places, but whether they were grow- 
ing quieter or more terrified could not be told. 

Captain Tobi had remained shut up in Daniel 
Downs’s home, and his crew on the schooner were ap- 
parently well contented to have him stay on shore. 
Nothing had been done toward carrying out an anchor 
astern, as would be necessary before the vessel could 
be floated, and it was much as if her owner had no 
further care concerning her. 

That night when the boys turned in ” there was 
no thought in their minds other than that the morrow 
would bring to them the task of walking around the 
island again and again, even though there might be 
nothing out of the ordinary to see, therefore they 
were surprised as well as gladdened when they were 
awakened next morning by the cry of Mr. Sawtelle: 

“ Turn out all hands ! We couldn’t have a better 
day to try out the Smuggler, and I count on getting 
under way as soon as we can fit out the Silver Fox 
with a wireless apparatus ! ” 

Before he had ceased speaking the boys and Zenas 
were making hurried toilets, and until the cook an- 
nounced that breakfast was served, they, assisted by 
the owner of the Nera, worked with feverish eager- 
ness to transfer the wireless instruments and antenna 
from the larger yacht to the smaller craft. 

Not until nearly nine o’clock was everything in 
readiness for the cruise. It had been decided that 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


271 


Paul should remain on the Silver Fox, while Ned 
went aboard the Smuggler. Zenas, as a matter of 
course, would act as captain of the small yacht, and 
it would be necessary that he and Paul divide as best 
they could the duties of engineer between them. 

Mr. Sawtelle had proposed that Captain Tobi be 
requested to take command of the craft, to the end 
that Master Cushing could give all his attention to 
running the motor ; but this suggestion had been vetoed 
so decidedly by both members of the crew that he let 
the matter drop by saying: 

“ There is no question but that two of you can run 
the yacht, although it will require some lively moving 
around, and if you are so opposed to having Captain 
Tobi on board you may paddle your own canoe.’’ 

“ I’d rather paddle it single-handed, an’ take the 
chances of bein’ able to work the wireless, than have 
that old pirate screamin’ an’ yellin’ from one end of 
the yacht to the other. It would be harder to wait 
on him than do all the work ourselves.” 

Very well, get under way at once and run toward 
Seaview; I’ll give you half an hour’s start and then 
put out. Stay by the instruments as close as possible, 
for I am eager to see if we can keep up communica- 
tion between the two ships without great difficulty. 
We will circle over the island in the Smuggler with 
the hope that we may be able to see what disturbed the 
foxes, and then come in pursuit of you.” 

“ How far do you count on going, sir? ” Paul asked. 

To Pleasant Harbor, after passing over Seaview. 
We won’t attempt to make a stop at either place.” 


272 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Then, after aiding the boys in weighing the anchor, 
Mr. Sawtelle went ashore in the dory, and the Silver 
Fox, sending up a jet of spray from her sharp stern, 
ran out of the harbor, gaining speed each instant until 
she was going at her best pace. 

During the first ten minutes Paul remained at the 
motor, oiling this bearing or that, and then, being 
satisfied the machinery did not need further watching, 
he went into the wheel-house where the wireless 
instruments had .been installed, saying as he did so : 

It isn’t possible that Ned can be in position to work 
as yet; but I’ll give him a trial,” and he sent out the 
Barren Island call, getting a reply within two minutes. 

“ Where are you ? ” he asked in surprise. 

Circling around the island at a height of about 
one hundred feet. Your father was so eager to have 
a look at the foxes from the air, that we got under 
way very soon after you left.” 

‘‘ How do you like crow-chasing? ” 

‘‘ It’s great. The contrivance for hauling the ship 
out of the hangar worked like a charm, and when we 
rose it was as if the Smuggler remained stationary 
while the earth dropped from beneath her. How is 
the yacht sailing ? ” 

''Like a bird; Zenas says he could steer her with 
one finger, and I really believe he’s more than half 
right.” 

" We’re straightening out to cross Swallow-tailed 
Cove, and will soon show ourselves,” Ned wrote in the 
ether, and Paul said as he turned from the instrument 
to have a look at the motor: 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


273 


Mr. Sawtelle needn’t have had any fears about 
our being able to hold communication between the 
Smuggler and the Silver Fox. I got Ned’s messages 
as well as if we had both been on the land.” 

Nothing could have been more uneventful and com- 
monplace than this cruise which Zenas had believed 
would prove most exciting. The Smuggler over- 
hauled and passed the Silver Fox within half an hour 
after the latter craft left the harbor, and as she sailed 
high above the waves Ned telegraphed that the 
scrutiny of the island had been of no avail, so. far as 
discovering any reason for the fright of the foxes. 

The two lads conversed with each other by aid of 
the instruments, until the airship was brought sharply 
around to the westward in order to pass over Seaview, 
and Paul went below to look after the motor as Zenas 
changed the course, standing directly down the coast 
to Pleasant Harbor. 

There may have been in the minds of some of the 
voyagers a faint belief that tokens of John Ed would 
be found at the point; but when the Smuggler had 
circled around the place where the boys had been 
marooned, and then crossed it no less than three times, 
Ned telegraphed that nothyig could be seen different 
from what had met their gaze when they landed in 
company with Mr. Sawtelle. 

Neither John Ed nor any other person has been 
here so far as we can make out,” he wrote. The 
door of the shanty still remains open, and I could 
almost fancy it was possible to see the same old pot of 
beans on the stove.” 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


274 

I still hold to it that the villain can’t be dead,” 
Zenas said doggedly when Paul repeated the words 
that had come from the aerial ship. ‘‘ It don’t stand 
to reason that a north-east gale could put him out of 
this world, for he’s got twice as many lives as a cat, 
else he’d been dead years ago.” 

This may have been the time when he came to 
an end of all his lives, no matter how many he had,” 
Paul said laughingly, and then he gave his attention 
once more to the motor. 

After hovering above the point ten minutes or more, 
the Smuggler was turned toward Barren Island, and 
Ned telegraphed : 

'' Homeward bound. It isn’t likely I’ll be called on 
to send any more messages, so suppose you show us 
what the Silver Fox can do in the way of sailing.” 

The day could not have been more favorable for 
such an exhibition as Ned desired to see. The ocean 
was comparatively calm ; hardly a breath of wind was 
stirring, and the course lay fair before the yacht with 
nothing to cause any deviation. 

Paul watched the motor jealously, forcing it to its 
utmost speed and asking through the speaking tube 
from time to time how the little craft was sailing. 

She’s fair flyin’ ! ” Zenas replied in a tone of 
triumph as if by some especial effort of his own the 
yacht was able to show speed. I’ll guarantee she’s 
makin’ thirteen or fourteen knots, an’ it’s a grand 
sight, the water we’re throwin’ up under our bow. ” 

Paul stole out on deck now and then, staying a few 
seconds to exult in the showing made by the Silver 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


275 

Fox, and when, in what seemed a marvelously short 
time after her departure, she ran into Barren Island 
harbor to her old moorings, he was convinced that it 
was not possible she could be excelled by any craft 
ever launched, of whatever size. 

If the cruise of the airship had not proved exciting, 
it was in every way a success, and when she had been 
secured in the hangar with not a bolt loose or a brace 
out of place, Mr. Sawtelle was quite as enthusiastic 
regarding her possibilities as were Zenas and Paul 
concerning the small yacht. 

Airship cruising is as simple a matter as sailing 
in the water, providing the craft is properly con- 
structed, handled with judgment, and indulged in un- 
der the right weather conditions,’' the owner of the 
Nera said in a tone of satisfaction as he joined the 
boys on board the Silver Fox, and even the usually 
skeptical Master Cushing was inclined to the same 
belief. 

During that afternoon Paul and Ned walked twice 
around the entire coast of the island, without seeing 
anything suspicious. Zenas watched the Downs boys 
from a distance, failing to observe in their movements 
that which could be construed as a wrongful act, and 
before night came the owners of the island felt 
reasonably certain that the foxes had not been dis- 
turbed by human beings. 

Next morning, before breakfast had been served 
aboard the Nera, Paul and Ned could hear Captain 
Tobi “ bellowing ” even while they were in the cabin, 
and both hastened on deck to learn the cause of the 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


276 

early disturbance, for, judging from the volume of 
noise, something of a serious nature was threatening 
or happening. 

Zenas, who had beaten them in the race up the com- 
panionway, turned back suddenly after listening to 
the old sailor a few seconds, and cried in an angry 
tone as he motioned the boys to return to the saloon : 

That old pirate ought’er be arrested for fright- 
enin' people under false pretenses! Wouldn’t you 
think the whole island had gone adrift an’ was in 
danger of bein’ wrecked? Well, the row is ’cause 
Sam an’ Ernest didn’t get out earlier to fish for rock 
cod! I never had any great love for those two boys 
because of their bein’ so bloomin’ lazy; but I can’t 
help pityin’ ’em when that imitation sailor gets to 
roaring around.” 

Daniel Downs’s sons rowed meekly out of the har- 
bor five minutes later, for they were accustomed to 
obeying promptly Captain Tobi’s commands, and 
within the next hour Zenas was sent to the hangar to 
aid the machinists in performing some trifling work, 
while Paul and Ned set out on their wearing round 
along the coast of the island. 

Athough it seemed to them as if such a task was 
useless, and it is quite probable that neither Mr. 
Sawtelle nor Mr. Simpson longer believed the foxes 
had been frightened by human beings, the boys were 
forced to continue the dull work because orders to the 
contrary had not been given. 

Paul had followed down the east shore, while Ned 
kept to the western coast, and the two met on the cliff 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 277 

at the southern point just as a series of shrill cries 
for help rang out on the still air. Startled and 
alarmed, the boys ran here and there peering over the 
cliff without discovering the cause of the alarm, until 
Paul chanced to raise his eyes above the coast line, 
when he saw the two Downs boys clinging to an over- 
turned dory as they drifted slowly out to sea. 

How could they have upset a dory while the water 
is so smooth ? ” he asked of himself as he pointed out 
to Ned the lads, whose cries had seemingly come from 
beneath the over-hanging cliff, and on the instant 
Master Bartlett was in a high state of excitement. 

One of us must swim out to them ! ” he cried 
sharply. “ They’ll drift out of sight in a short time, 
and it isn’t possible they’ll be able to cling very long 
to the bottom of the boat ! ” 

“ At the rate they’re going it’ll be a couple of hours 
before they are out of sight, and I don’t fancy there’s 
much danger of their being drowned within the next 
thirty minutes. It is foolish to talk of swimming out 
to them, because you could do no good, and would 
only be adding to the number who are to be saved.” 

But do you count on standing here idle while 
they’re yelling for help?” Ned cried nervously, and 
Paul replied calmly as he signaled with his arms to 
the distressed fishermen : 

“Of course I don’t, neither do I intend to do any 
such foolish thing as you proposed. The only way 
we can help them is to. get the Silver Fox under way ; 
with her we can save their lives and the dory at the 
same time.” 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


278 

Then Paul, quickening his pace until he was running 
at full speed, went toward the harbor, Ned following, 
and when the two lads arrived it was as if the place 
had been deserted. Save for Captain Tobi's crew, 
who were probably taking their ease in the cabin of 
the stranded craft, there was no person near the shore, 
and when Ned would have set off up the hill to 
summon assistance Paul shouted: 

You and I can run the Silver Fox without calling 
on any one for help. Jump into the tender, quick! 
After we get the anchor you can handle the wheel and 
ril take care of the motor. I reckon Sam and Ernest 
can cling to the dory quite a spell ; but it won’t do for 
us to spend time running after Zenas.” 

To pull the light tender out to the yacht, raise the 
anchor and start the motor was the work of but per- 
haps five minutes, and then the Silver Fox was sent 
at her best speed in the direction of where the Downs 
boys had last been seen, Paul coming on deck as soon 
as the engine was working smoothly. 

“ What puzzles me is how they contrived to upset 
a dory in this weather,” he said as he leaned against 
the open door of the wheel-house, where he could 
have a view of the sea to the southward of the island, 
and Ned, who had grown exceedingly nervous be- 
cause of fearing that the boys might drown before the 
yacht could run down the coast, replied irritably: 

“ Never mind how it happened ! It’s our business to 
get them aboard as soon as possible, and we can’t 
afford to waste time speculating as to how they 
chanced to be in such a plight ! ” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


279 

We couldn’t be going faster if we were both 
dumb/’ Paul said laughingly. “ Talking won’t do 
them any harm, and I can’t think they’re in very much 
danger. It hasn’t been long since they got down to 
the point, and those fellows should be able to keep 
their hold on the boat two or three hours.” 

Ned did not reply, and, understanding that he was 
too thoroughly excited to be able to indulge in con- 
versation, Paul went into the extreme bow of the 
little yacht, where he hung over the rail, on the watch 
for the wrecked fishermen. 

When the Silver Fox rounded the southerly point, 
keeping at a safe distance from the reefs that ran out 
into the sea a considerable distance, the distressed 
lads could be seen and heard distinctly, for as the yacht 
came into view their cries for help were redoubled. 
Paul ran below ready to obey the commands from the 
wheel-house, and when the bell came for “ slow 
down,” followed a few seconds later by the signal to 
“ stop her,” he came on deck once more to perform 
his part in the rescue. 

It was a simple matter to run the Silver Fox so 
close alongside the overturned dory that Master 
Simpson was able to pass a line across the craft, and 
then as the yacht came to a stop the fishermen with 
their boat were brought neatly alongside, after which, 
with Paul’s assistance, they were brought in over the 
rail. 

To the surprise of the rescuers both boys were so 
exhausted that they lay at full length on the deck as if 
unable to move, apparently giving no heed when Ned 


28 o 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


was called from the wheel to aid in making the dory- 
fast 

“ We can’t right her without too much work, and 
she won’t be such a terrible drag if we tow her as she 
is. Better get a bigger hawser from the fore-peak, 
for the painter doesn’t look strong enough to stand 
the strain,” Paul said in a tone of command, and while 
Ned was obeying orders he asked of the rescued lads, 
“ How did it come about that the dory was overturned 
on a morning like this ? ” 

“ We tried to run in between the reefs to give John 
Ed a hand, and the eddy swung her on the rocks. 
If it hadn’t been for him we’d both been drowned,” 
Sam said, speaking with seeming difficulty as if he was 
so nearly exhausted that his tongue refused to obey 
his brain. 

John Ed! What do you mean by that? He isn’t 
anywhere around here ! ” 

“ He swam out to help us when we were like to be 
beaten against the reef.” 

“ Who did? ” and Paul gazed in alarm at the half- 
drowned lads, believing they had taken leave of their 
senses. 

“John Ed,” Ernest replied in a faint voice, and 
then he closed his eyes, apparently unable to make 
further effort. 

By this time Ned returned with a rope of sufficient 
strength to act as hawser for the dory, and while the 
two were making it fast to the overturned boat, Paul 
whispered : 

“ I reckon they were in worse shape than I fancied 


THEIR CRIES FOR HELP WERE REDOUBLED 








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FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


281 


when we first saw them. It’s about the same as certain 
that they’ve gone crazy, for Sam told about helping 
John Ed, and a minute later Ernest says he saved 
them from being tossed about on the reef.” 

“ They say John Ed did all that? ” and Ned stood 
motionless, looking in surprise and bewilderment at 
his cousin. 

“ Don’t stop to be astonished, for they must be in a 
bad way, and it stands us in hand to get them ashore 
in a hurry. I suppose they’re been so frightened of 
Bingham that now, when they’ve lost their senses, he 
seems to stand before them.” 


CHAPTER XV 


PERPLEXITY 

By this time Paul was thoroughly alarmed and 
would have left the dory to her fate but for the fact 
that Ned insisted on making her fast, because to lose 
a boat at a time when they had so few for transporta- 
tion to and fro across the harbor would be most 
serious. 

When, finally, it was possible for the engineer to go 
below to start the motor, the Downs boys were 
stretched out at full length on the deck, seemingly 
unable to move or speak, and it would have been use- 
less, even though time had not seemed so precious, to 
attempt to question them further. 

Paul set the engine at full speed, and then ran back 
on deck in the hope that he might be able to afford 
some relief to the sufferers; but it was as if they 
had not heard him when he tried to learn what they 
needed before reaching the harbor. 

“If they had been in the water all night they 
couldn^t be in worse condition,^’ he said to Ned when 
he found it impossible to learn from the boys any- 
thing regarding themselves. “ Mrs. Barton, who had 
been beaten by the surf that swept over the schooner 
yacht, did not appear to be so nearly dead — certain it 
is, she didn’t lose her reason.” 

282 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


283 

“ It must be that they were badly knocked around 
on the reef before the dory drifted off. Strange that 
they should claim to have been saved by John Ed, and 
also that they were trying to help him ! ’’ 

There’s no question about their being crazy, 
and yet I can’t make out how they could have been 
injured so severely as to affect their reason. They 
hadn’t been away from the harbor an hour when we 
heard the cries; it would take ten minutes or more 
to row the dory to the southern point, and she 
must have been twice that length of time drifting 
off the shore, therefore I can’t figure that the boys 
could have been on the reef more than fifteen min- 
utes.” 

A fellow might be hurt mighty bad even in that 
short time.” 

“ Not when the sea is so quiet as it is this morning. 
Of course the eddy would whirl them around con- 
siderable; but not with force enough to so completely 
daze them.” 

Turn the matter as they might, Paul and Ned could 
not arrive at any conclusion which would seem to 
account for the present condition of affairs, and as 
they came to an end of vain speculations their fears 
increased lest it might not be possible to get them to 
the harbor alive. 

Can’t you get more speed out of the motor? ” Ned 
asked nervously. 

‘‘ She is doing her best; we can’t be making less than 
fourteen miles an hour, and in five minutes more we’ll 
be inside. Blow the whistle as soon as you come 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


284 

around the point, in order to bring some of the people 
down to the shore/’ 

Then Paul went back to the motor-room, and as he 
watched the delicate machinery he heard the whistle 
sounding an alarm that must have attracted the atten- 
tion and curiosity of every one on the island. 

‘‘ Slow down, stop her,” came from the wheel- 
house, and instantly he had obeyed, Paul ran on deck 
to make ready the anchor, which had been left hang- 
ing over the port rail when they got under way in 
such haste. 

Already had those on the island understood that the 
prolonged whistling indicated danger of some kind, 
and from Daniel Downs’s home, from the hangar, and 
from the hotel ” men were coming in hot haste, 
Zenas leading the way with gigantic strides, and Cap- 
tain Tobi waddling far in the rear. 

Run her as far inshore as is safe ! ” Paul cried to 
his cousin, and when the little craft was in water so 
shoal that she would have grounded in twelve inches 
less, he let go the anchor with a rush and almost at the 
same moment began hauling the tender alongside. 

“ What’s the matter ? ” Zenas shouted wildly. 

‘‘ Sam and Ernest have been overboard, and seem 
to be hurt pretty severely. You must come off to help 
us get them into the boat ! ” 

Five minutes later, so expeditiously did both Zenas 
and Paul work, the now unconscious lads were in the 
tender being rowed swiftly to the beach, where a group 
of men awaited them. No questions were then asked 
as to how the accident occurred; but without delay the 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


285 

owners of the island lifted Sam in their arms, one 
carrying his feet and the other his shoulders, while 
Ernest was being cared for in a similar manner by 
his father and the engineer. 

There was no good reason why the crew of the 
Silver Fox should join the mournful procession which 
wound its way up the little hill, and Zenas remained 
behind with them to care for the yacht, asking as soon 
as the three had begun to warp her back to the old 
mooring place : 

How did it happen? Where did you find them? ” 

Paul told all the story, giving each unimportant 
detail in his desire to make the matter more plain, and 
Ned adding a word now and then, until Master Cush- 
ing was possessed of all the facts, when, as might have 
been expected, he was thoroughly astonished as well 
as perplexed. 

He, however, was not so prone as had been the boys, 
to attribute the mention of John Ed’s name to 
temporary insanity; but said thoughtfully, rubbing the 
end of his nose until it glowed fiery red : 

“ It don’t stand to reason that they could have been 
knocked about so much as to make ’em crazy. There 
isn’t surf enough to break an egg. Do you suppose 
Bingham hit ’em a few hard clips ? ” 

Now don’t you get Q.v2izy, Zenas,” Paul cried 
impatiently. “ You know very well he can’t be on the 
island, and then again, they spoke of trying to help 
him, and declared he saved their lives.” 

'‘Kind of a muddle, eh?” 

" It is so far as trying to guess how they got hurt 


286 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


so badly, and in such a short time,’’ Ned replied in a 
tone of irritation, for he was not prepared to admit 
even for an instant that the mention of the old 
smuggler’s name could have been brought about other 
than through the vagary of disordered minds. 

“ They wasn’t dreamin’ about John Ed; yet as you 
say, he couldn’t have been here if it was him we saw 
runnin’ past Seaview harbor in the gale. Say, lads, I 
don’t reckon there’s anythin’ we can do at Daniel’s 
home, eh? ” 

With all the men on the island there to lend a 
hand, I can’t see how we could be of assistance,” and 
Paul began hauling alongside the upturned dory in 
order to take measures toward righting her. 

‘‘ Say, I don’t allow there’s any reason why you 
should fumble around with that boat. She must be 
towed in to the beach before we can turn her over, an’ 
I’m wantin’ you lads to go with me for a turn ’round 
the southerly reefs.” 

“ Why? Is your head filled with the same detective 
business that caused us so much trouble ? ” 

You’ll do me the favor to remember that my 
‘ detective business ’ wasn’t all in my eye, even if the 
wind-up of it did go a bit wrong. We’ve got to go 
ashore anyway to beach the dory, an’ it won’t do 
much harm if we run down to the reef. It may be we 
can figure out there how Sam and Ernest got hurt 
so badly.” 

By putting the matter in this last light Master Cush- 
ing succeeded in bringing the boys to share his scheme, 
whatever it might be, and at once all three set about 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


287 

towing the half -sunken dory, hauling her into 
shallow water close alongside Captain Tobi’s stranded 
schooner. 

A line was made fast to the vessel, lest the small 
craft should drift off when the tide rose, and, this done, 
Master Cushing led the way at a rapid pace to the 
southerly end of the island, Paul saying in a half- 
whisper to his cousin as they followed : 

Zenas is all afire now with the idea that John Ed 
may have had something to do with the accident, al- 
though he knows full well that the old smuggler can’t 
be within thirty miles of this place whether he’s dead 
or alive. He shan’t be allowed to mix us all up again, 
and no matter how hard he tries to swear us to secrecy 
in his fool detective work, I’ll repeat every word he 
says to father.” 

‘‘ You needn’t fret about anything of that kind. 
We shall go down here and look at the rocks — there’ll 
be nothing more to see — and Zenas will come out of 
the clouds through having had time to think the matter 
over quietly. When the boys first spoke of John Ed 
it startled me for an instant; but after remembering 
where and how we last saw him, I knew both the lads 
had lost their reason.” 

“ Zenas will try to make out that we were mistaken 
in thinking it was Bingham whom we saw in the 
Hampton boat on the day of the storm ” 

“ He needn’t try to do anything of that kind, for I 
looked at the man through the glasses, as you did, and 
know there couldn’t have been any mistake. Zenas 
himself said it was John Ed.” 


288 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ Got it all mapped out ? ’’ Master Cushing said 
with a smile as, having seen the boys talking in a 
guarded tone, he fell back a few paces in order to walk 
by Paul’s side. 

“ Unless you find something here on the rocks to 
tell the story, I’m afraid we shan’t know the truth 
until Sam and Ernest are able to explain matters.” 

And you’re calling me all kinds of a fool for 
gettin’ haired-up ’cause they said John Ed was there? ” 
Of course we are. Didn’t you say positively the 
man in the Hampton who went past Seaview, because 
of not being able to make the harbor, was Bingham? ” 
Sure, an’ I’d be willin’ to swear it was.’’ 

If that is the case, why should you fancy tor a 
single second that the Downs boys might have seen 
him? You know he couldn’t have got back here, no 
matter where he might have succeeded in getting 
ashore.” 

“ If it was any other man but John Ed Bingham 
I’d say he couldn’t be here; but that old smuggler has 
always done exactly what everybody believed would be 
impossible — Say ! ” and Zenas stopped suddenly as 
he gazed staring-eyed at the boys, you don’t s’pose 
that, the old fellow really bein’ dead, Sam an’ Ernest 
saw his ghost, eh? ” 

Now you’re talking greater nonsense than be- 
fore,” and Paul laughed so heartily, his cousin joining 
in the mirth, that Master Cushing walked swiftly on 
in advance, looking not a little shame-faced because 
of having made such a suggestion. 

Zenas did not speak again until they were come to 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


289 


where* two long lines of black rocks extended from the 
foot of a cliff into the sea, the water, even when the 
ocean was still as on this day, dashing itself into foam 
against the jaws of what seemed much like a trap for 
unwary sailors or careless fishermen. 

It was while the three stood on the shore from 
where could be had a view of the dancing water be- 
tween the reefs that Master Cushing said reflectively, 
as if he had forgotten the purpose for which he had 
come : 

“ A nasty kind of a place when the wind kicks up a 
swell, an’ there are precious few men on this coast 
that would venture into it, even when it’s quiet same 
as now. A proper kind of a trap for a stranger, who 
might think a fair landin’ place could be found at this 
end, an’ so take chances that, nine times out of ten, 
would lead him to his death.” 

“ Did you bring us down here simply that we might 
hear your opinion of the reefs?” Ned asked half- 
sportively and half-petulantly. 

“ I never stand here on the shore lookin’ out be- 
tween those black claws of rock, that it doesn’t give 
me the shivers,” Master Cushing continued as if speak- 
ing to the cliff itself. “ Always seems as if there 
must be some kind of an enormous animal under the 
hill, an’ the reefs were his feelers, that he was stretch- 
in’ out to catch whoever should be foolish enough to 
come between ’em.” 

Come on; let’s go back and find out how Sam and 
Ernest are getting along,” Paul cried impatiently. 
“ Even if we can be of no service at Mr. Downs’s 


290 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


house, our time will be spent to better profit in raisin’ 
the dory, so that she will be ready for use, than by 
standing here listening to Zenas’s fanciful pictures 
of the reefs.” 

If he came down this way for an especial pur- 
pose, I’m willing to wait until he has finished, rather 
than come again,” Ned added with mild sarcasm, and 
then asked bluntly, “ Is there anything more you 
want to do, Zenas, or have you got it in mind that 
John Ed’s ghost may show itself?” 

“ I was tryin’ to figure out why Sam an’ Ernest, 
who know even better than we do that it is a mighty 
dangerous venture to put a boat between these lines 
of rocks, should have come in here this morning when 
they’d been sent in a hurry to catch rock cod,” Master 
Cushing replied, and Paul asked with mild irony: 

“Are you expecting that some one or something 
will appear to explain matters ? ” 

“ I thought perhaps there might be a bit of wreckage 
at this end which would tempt them in ; but everything 
seems to have been swept clean by the surf’. There 
was a reason for their takin’ the chances, an’ when 
we find out what it was we may know why they talked 
about John Ed.” 

“ The simplest way would be to wait until they are 
in condition to tell their story. No matter what you 
might find here, it would be a case of guessing, and 
perhaps by this time the boys have explained every- 
thing.” 

It seemed much as if Master Cushing preferred to 
puzzle out the problem unaided, for instead of mak- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


291 


ing any reply he walked slowly to and fro on the 
shore directly beneath the cliff, and as far down on 
either line of reef as he could go without danger of 
being washed into the sea by the lazy surf which now 
and then swept entirely across the rocks, searching 
with his eyes every nook and crevice; but, so far as 
the boys could make out, finding nothing to particularly 
attract his attention. 

Then he followed along the sandy beach an hundred 
yards or more either side of the reefs, walking slowly, 
stopping now and then as if for no other purpose than 
to overturn a shell or small rock, until no less than 
half an hour had been spent in what seemed like use- 
less scrutiny, and by that time the patience of the boys 
was entirely exhausted. 

“ Fm going back to the harbor,” Paul finally said in 
a tone of decision. There’s no sense in mooning 
around here, and it is possible we may be needed. You 
can stay here, Zenas, until next summer if you feel so 
disposed; but Ned and I have finished with such 
foolishness.” 

“ ril go with you,” was the meek reply, and Master 
Cushing slowly turned to follow the boys, who had 
started toward the harbor even while Paul was speak- 
ing. “ I did hope that we’d see somethin’ down this 
way that would show us why Sam an’ Ernest went 

between the reefs; but ” 

They said something about helping Bingham ; but 
of course that was a wild fancy, unless,” Ned added 
laughingly, they saw John Ed’s ghost as you sug- 
gested.” 


292 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


It was more’n a ghost that sent ’em in where they 
knew a boat should not be put,” Master Cushing re- 
plied thoughtfully. If the surf was knockin’ ’em 
about on the rocks, how did it happen that they an’ 
their boat drifted out to sea in the short time they 
must have been at this end of the island? ” 

“ Why do you try to puzzle all that out when by 
waiting long enough we shall hear the whole story 
from the boys themselves?” 

“ I s’pose I am foolish, an’ I’ve shown it in a good 
many ways since I came to this island. I’m allowin’, 
though, that it won’t do any great harm if I keep 
chewin’ the thing over, providin’ I turn to at what- 
ever’s to be done. There comes your father, Paul; 
perhaps he’s got the same kind of a bee in his bonnet 
that I’ve had in mine.” 

Mr. Simpson could be seen coming toward the boys 
hurriedly, and all the lads quickened their pace until 
they arrived within hailing distance, when Paul asked 
anxiously if their services were needed. 

It is quite evident that Sam and Ernest have been 
seriously injured,” Mr. Simpson said gravely as he 
halted. “ Neither Mr. Sawtelle nor I feel competent 
to attend to the case, and we believe it necessary you 
boys should run over to Seaview for a physician. Get 
under way in the Silver Fox as soon as possible, and 
promise that you will carry the doctor back before 
night, unless he finds his patients in such condition 
that he prefers to remain, in which case we will 
provide him with comfortable quarters aboard the 
Nerar 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


293 

Haven’t the boys been able to tell you how the 
accident happened?” Ned asked. 

“ They have remained in a semi-unconscious con- 
dition ever since we carried them to the house, and it 
is that fact which causes me so much uneasiness re- 
garding them. Tell me how you found them.” 

Paul gave his father all the details of the affair, 
from the time the cries for help were heard, until the 
sufferers had been brought to the island, not omitting 
the words relative to the old smuggler, and when the 
story was ended Zenas asked eagerly: 

What do you make out of their say in’ first that 
they had gone between the reefs to help John Ed, an’ 
then that he had saved their lives? ” 

They were not in possession of all their senses,” 
was the prompt reply, else some sort of an explana- 
tion would have followed.” 

But they went off into a kind of faint, so 
Paul an’ Ned say, before anythin’ more could be 
told.” 

All of which shows that they were wandering in 
their minds. To me the mystery is how they could 
have been so severely injured, for there is no question 
but that both have been hurt internally. Make haste 
to get under way, and push your boat to her utmost, 
for the boys must have medical aid at the earliest 
possible moment.” 

Thus urged, and seemingly for the first time realiz- 
ing that each moment was precious, Zenas broke into 
a run, arriving at the shore of the harbor sufficiently 
in advance of the others to have the tender afloat 


294 AIRSHIP CRUISING 

ready to carry the boys out to the yacht instantly they 
came up. 

“ Say to the physician that Mr. Sawtelle and I will 
pay him for his services, and represent that we believe 
it is in the highest degree important he come without 
delay,” Mr. Simpson shouted as Zenas rowed the boys 
out from the shore, and then he wheeled about as if 
to return to Mr. Downs’s home. 

Not until the Silver Fox was under way running 
at her best speed on the most direct course to Seaview 
did either of the crew comment upon their mission, 
and then Master Cushing said, when Paul came on 
deck after having assured himself that the motor was 
running smoothly: 

“ I’d like to have you tell me how Sam and Ernest 
could have been hurt so badly, even if they were swept 
back an’ forth across the reef half a dozen times.” 

‘‘ You know very well that I can’t so much as 
guess. It surely doesn’t seem as if they could have 
been hurt any worse than was Mrs. Barton and the 
baby, and certain it is they were not in as tough a 
situation, yet both the mother and the baby grew 
better the longer they were on shore, while Sam and 
Ernest are worse than when we picked them up.” 

‘‘ There’s a big mystery about the whole matter,” 
Zenas said thoughtfully. I’m beginnin’ to believe 
my hint that John Ed’s ghost might have been around, 
wasn’t as wild as the reality. The idea of two strong 
boys, who couldn’t have been hangin’ to the dory more 
than three-quarters of an hour even if the boat cap- 
sized immediately she arrived at the reef, should be 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


295 


hurt so much that they turn crazy! It must be that 
they have grown sicker than when we saw ’em, else 
the owners of this ’ere island wouldn’t take the matter 
in hand to the extent of bein’ willin’ to pay a doctor 
for cornin’ across, an’ it won’t be any small bill he’ll 
charge, that you may set down as a fact.” 

Paul went to and fro from the motor-room to the 
wheel-house at intervals of five minutes, and at every 
opportunity Master Cushing speculated upon what 
might have happened to Sam and Ernest; but the 
longer he argued the more dense was the mystery, 
until Ned said with a long-drawn breath that was like 
a sigh when they were at the entrance to Seaview 
harbor : 

Don’t talk about it any more. We shan’t find out 
what really happened until Sam and Ernest are able 
to tell their story, and this guessing at everything from 
John Ed’s ghost to attempted murder isn’t very sooth- 
ing. Who’s going ashore in search of the doctor? ” 

“ Paul had better ’tend to that part of the business, 
for I’m needed here, I reckon, seein’s how by this 
time every idler in town is hustlin’ down to the pier 
to find out why we have come, an’ somebody must 
stand by to answer their questions.” 

As Master Cushing suggested so the crew of the 
Silver Fox did. No sooner was the little yacht made 
fast to the pier than Paul hastened on shore, meeting, 
as Zenas had predicted, a small throng of curious 
idlers who were coming down to the dock to learn why 
the boys from Barren Island had returned so soon. 
Zenas was well qualified to reply to the many ques- 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


296 

tions asked without imparting any real information, 
and he seemingly enjoyed baffling the curiosity of the 
eager people who dearly loved a bit of gossip, until 
Mr. Mansfield arrived on the scene. 

He had waited patiently in the belief that at least 
one of the visitors would come to his shop, and when 
the moments passed and the loungers yet remained at 
the pier, he could no longer control his desire to learn 
what had caused this unexpected arrival. 

Master Cushing understood that the shop-keeper 
must be treated in a manner somewhat different from 
the average citizens of Seaview, and also that some 
story must be told to account for the doctor’s sum- 
mons. 

Therefore he led Mr. Mansfield a short distance up 
the pier where none of the throng could overhear 
the conversation, and explained that the Downs boys 
had been hurt while fishing off the reef. 

He treated the matter as if there was nothing un- . 
usual in the accident, explaining that he and the 
^ owners of the Silver Fox had been hurried away so 
soon after the affair occurred that they had not had 
time to learn all the particulars. This done he came 
to the questions he was burning to ask : 

“ Say, Mr. Mansfield, you know what has been re- 
ported about John Ed, an’ also that we saw him drivin’ 
past this ’ere harbor on the day of the big gale. Now 
I want to know if you believe he can be alive? ” 

'' He’s dead, Zenas; there’s been no question of that 
in my mind since I had a talk with Cap’in Jed. It 
seems queer that the old fellow should have been 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


297 


drowned, when we all allowed he’d spend the last of 
his days in jail; but he found a sailor’s grave which, 
perhaps, he didn’t deserve, though as I’ve said agin 
an’ agin, there are plenty of men walkin’ ’round with 
their hands in their pockets who are worse at heart 
than ever John Ed was, even if he did cut some mighty 
nasty capers.” 

Do you believe in ghosts ? ” 

“Ghosts, Zenas; have you seen one?” 

“ No,” Master Cushing replied hesitatingly as if 
uncertain whether he had or not ; “ but since it has 
looked as if John Ed had gone to the bottom of the 
sea, I’ve been wonderin’ whether there might be sich 
things.” 

“ I’ve heard of ’em, Zenas, I’ve heard of ’em, an’ 
from folks that I allers allowed was about as nigh 
truthful as men are made; but I never could make up 
my mind to a certainty, seein’s how I haven’t run 
across one myself. If there are ghosts, though. I’d say 
that John Ed would go into the business jest as soon 
as it could be brought about. Look here, you’ve got 
some reason for askin’ about ghosts,' an’ I want to 
know what it is. Have you told me the truth about 
Sam an’ Ernest Downs ? ” 

Before Master Cushing could reply the doctor was 
seen coming down the hill at his best pace, and the 
helmsman of the Silver Fox was forced to break 
away from his eager questioner very unceremoniously 
in order that the yacht might be got under way at the 
earliest possible moment. 

“ I’m allowin’ that we’ve left them ’ere folks puzzlin’ 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


298 

what little brains they’ve got in a mighty lively 
fashion,” Zenas said to Ned when the Silver Fox was 
running out of the harbor. “ We got away in sich a 
hurry that they’re reckonin’ we didn’t tell all we knew, 
an’ Billy Mansfield has a bee in his bonnet that won’t 
stop buzzin’ till we come agin.” 

The doctor, who claimed to be a poor sailor, had 
gone below immediately after coming on board, there- 
fore Zenas could not question him as he had hoped 
to do. He was not yet satisfied as to whether or no 
there were such things as ghosts, and it seemed to him 
that the medical gentleman was fitted by education 
to give him the most intelligent answer, yet because 
of duty he could not at that time get the information 
he most ardently desired. 

When the Silver Fox again entered Barren Island 
harbor Captain Tobi and Mr. Simpson were the only 
persons to be seen on the shore, and Paul’s father 
urged the physician to make haste when he had been 
set ashore, thus causing Paul and Ned to believe that 
the condition of Sam and Ernest might have been 
changed for the worse. 

“How are they. Captain Tobi?” Ned asked, and 
the old sailor looked really distressed in mind as he 
replied slowly: 

“ I declare for it, lad, I can’t make head nor tail 
to this ’ere business. Mr. Sawtelle says they’re in a 
mighty bad way, an’ what puzzles me is how they 
could have got so by jest bein’ in the water an hour or 
two.” 

“ Not much more’n half an hour ’cordin’ to the 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


299 


time they left here an^ when our boys heard ’em shout- 
in’ for help,” Zenas interrupted, and it was good proof 
that Captain Tobi was in a state bordering on be- 
wilderment when he failed to answer Master Cushing 
angrily, or even to raise his voice above an ordinary 
tone. 

Wa’al, call it half an hour, an’ they swashin’ 
around on a sea as calm as a mill-pond. Why, I’ve 
known men come up bright an’ smilin’ after dingin’ 
to a plug strap twelve hours on a stretch with the 
wind bio win’ half a gale. What ails ’em is what I’m 
askin’.” 

I reckon you heard what they said ’bout John 
Ed?” Zenas asked, as if it was a matter of little 
importance, and straightway the old sailor grew ex- 
cited. 

‘‘ ’Bout John Ed? No, I haven’t heard anythin’; it 
seems like as if all hands on this ’ere island had gone 
crazy, an’ I might be the dirt under their feet, so far as 
their talkin’ to me. Did the boys say anythin’ ’bout 
that old villain ? What was it ? Why don’t you talk, 
Zenas Cushin’ ? ” and for the first time since the arrival 
of the doctor did Captain Tobi speak in his usual 
‘‘ bellow.” 

Under less serious circumstances, when his mind 
was not so heavily burdened with certain strange 
speculations, Zenas would have made an angry retort ; 
but he was so eager to hear what Captain Tobi might 
have to say regarding the matter, that he meekly re- 
peated the words the boys had uttered, at the same 
time telling that he had visited the reefs at the south- 


300 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


erly end of the harbor without having found anything 
that might aid in solving the mystery. 

“Of course Bingham couldn’t have got on this 
island after we saw him running past Seaview/’ Paul 
suggested, and Captain Tobi shook his head doubt- 
fully. 

“ There’s no tellin’ what a feller like John Ed might 
do. I’d been willin’ to take my solemn ’davy that there 
wasn’t a man in this ’ere world who could have cheated 
me out of my just an’ lawful dues while my eyes were 
open, an’ yet he’s never paid me a cent! But why 
did Sam an’ Ernest say anythin’ ’bout him ? ” 

“ That’s just what I’d like to find out, Cap’in Tobi, 
an’ it seemed to me that you might get at the bottom 
of the matter, seein’s how you’ve knocked around the 
world so much,” Zenas said with a most friendly 
manner, as if he and the old sailor had been life-long 
friends. 

“ First tell me what knocked ’em out so bad? ” Cap- 
tain Tobi cried after remaining silent while one might 
have counted twenty, and Master Cushing replied with 
the faintest touch of scorn in his tones : 

“If we knew that much, I reckon it wouldn’t take 
us long to get at the rest of the business. So you can’t 
figure it out, eh ? ” 

“ Who said I couldn’t? ” the captain roared. “ This 
is what you might call a mix-up, an’ I must have time 
to think it over. So they talked ’bout John Ed, eh? 
An’ so bad off that it wasn’t possible to say another 
word I Driftin’ ’round half an hour when there wasn’t 
wind enough to ruffle the water! Why, they’d swim 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


301 

twice as long as that in the harbor, an’ think nothin’ 
of it” 

Having said this as if thinking aloud, Captain Tobi 
hailed his crew of two on the stranded schooner, de- 
manding that they “ lend a hand ” in helping him over 
the bow. After five minutes or more of the most 
strenuous exertion the fleshy sailor succeeded in gain- 
ing the deck of his vessel, and when he was half-way 
down the after companionway he stopped sufficiently 
long to wave his hand in a patronizing manner to 
Zenas as he cried : 

“ I’ll turn this ’ere thing over till I get to the bottom 
of it, an’ if so be you want my advice then, come 
aboard. I’ll stay here, I reckon, till things get kind’er 
settled down up at Daniel’s.” 

He’ll get at the bottom of it ! ” Master Cushing 
cried with quite as much of scorn as of anger in his 
tones. Wouldn’t you think he was about the only 
soul left in this world ? The old pirate really believes 
he can work it all out in that smoke-hole of a cabin. 
I’m sorry now that I let on as to what the boys said 
regardin’ John Ed, ’cause it would have been a good 
idee to let him come to understand that things went 
on now an’ then that he couldn’t monkey with.” 

During a full hour the crew of the Silver Fox re- 
mained on the shore ready to take the doctor aboard, 
and not until then did he appear in the company of 
Mr. Simpson, the two talking earnestly as they came 
toward the shore. 

It must have been that they were swept upon the 
reef violently by the waves, and were injured about 


302 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


the head and chest, though it seems a bit strange that 
both should be in about the same condition, mentally 
as well as bodily,^’ the doctor was saying with a pro- 
fessional air, and Mr. Simpson detained him only long 
enough to ask when he would be ready to come again. 

You may send your yacht over in the morning 
if the boys are not improved, and in such case we will 
try a different treatment. Just now, as I told their 
mother, quiet and rest are what seems to be most 
needed. It may be that the fear of drowning has 
caused the mental excitement under which I fancy they 
have been laboring, and yet such supposition hardly 
seems warranted in the case of lads who must have 
been overboard under similar circumstances many 
times before. I have administered sleeping potions, 
and we can only wait to learn the result.” 

Then the doctor stepped gingerly into the little 
tender, and the crew of the Silver Fox, lost no time 
in setting him aboard the yacht. 


CHAPTER XVI 


AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR 

Master Cushing confidently expected to gain no 
little information concerning the mystery of the reefs 
from the physician, and as soon as the Silver Fox 
was well under way, with the medical gentleman lying 
on one of the lockers in the after cabin in the hope 
of avoiding an attack of seasickness, he called Ned 
to the wheel and went below, much the same as bub- 
bling over with the questions he proposed to ask. 

Without waiting for such formalities as asking 
whether it might not be possible to make the passenger 
more comfortable, he plunged at once into that matter 
which was uppermost in his mind, by suggesting in 
what he believed to be a most politic manner : 

I reckon, doctor, that the boys made out to tell 
you how they got hurt ? 

‘‘ The owners of the island told me they had been 
thrown from their boat into the water, and dashed 
upon the reefs,” the physician replied, seemingly sur- 
prised because Zenas was not thoroughly well aware 
as to how the accident happened. 

“ Could they have been hurt so badly in such a 
way ? ” 

“ Evidently they have received injuries, and I sup- 
posed I had been given all the information possible.” 

303 


304 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ So you have, sir ; I reckon Mr. Sawtelle or Mr. 
Simpson told you all they knew, but it seems to me 
they couldn’t have come to as much harm on the reef 
in so short a time.” 

Now it was the doctor’s curiosity which was excited, 
and immediately Master Cushing found that he was the 
one expected to give information instead of receive it, 
for the passenger questioned him so closely and so 
persistently that Zenas was eager to escape to the deck, 
fearing lest it might be represented to the owners of 
the island that he doubted the stories they had told 
regarding the boys. 

I reckon it ain’t any of my business,” he finally 
said in an apologetic tone. I was one of the crew 
that picked ’em up, an’ then they seemed too far gone 
to talk. I haven’t had a chance to see ’em since, but 
thought they might have told you the story.” 

I made no attempt to question them, for the very 
good reason that their minds seemed to be wandering,” 
the doctor said in an odd tone, and it was evident that 
he was just a trifle perplexed because one of those who 
had rescued the boys should come to him for informa- 
tion as to how the injuries had been received. 

Very awkwardly did Master Cushing make his exit 
from the cabin, wishing most heartily that he had 
remained at the wheel instead of trying to clear up the 
mystery. 

When he next appeared in the wheel-house and Ned 
asked why he had remained below so long, Zenas 
evaded the question by asking gruffly whether the 
yacht had been held directly on her course. As Paul 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


305 


came from below to have a chat, the helmsman much 
the same as refused to speak, nor did he recover his 
usual composure until the Silver Fox was entering 
Seaview harbor, when he said curtly through the 
speaking tube : 

“ We’ll be at the pier in less than five minutes, an’ 
it stands us in hand to make a hurried get-away, for 
all the loafers in town will take a bee-line for the 
shore to hear about the accident, an’ if we try to 
answer half the questions they’ll ask, we shall be 
forced to stay in port till after sunset.” 

I’ll be on deck as soon as you give the signal to 
stop her, and we won’t run out but one hawser. If the 
doctor moves lively we needn’t be there sixty seconds.” 

It is more than probable that the physician was sur- 
prised because of the eagerness displayed by the crew 
of the yacht to set him ashore. 

The little craft had not yet come to a standstill 
when a small hawser was thrown over the cleat on the 
pier, and even while this was being done Paul made 
every effort to assist him over the rail. 

You seem to be in a hurry,” the gentleman said 
grimly when he staggered to the pier, almost thrown 
from his feet by ‘Paul’s energetic movements, and 
Zenas shouted just as half a dozen men came in sight 
from Mr. Mansfield’s shop: 

“ We’re under orders to get back before dark, an’ 
can’t afford to lay here tryin’ to tell folks what we 
don’t know ourselves.” 

This reply seemed to put the medical gentleman in 
a more amiable mood, and he nodded meaningly as the 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


306 

Silver Fox began to move through the water and the 
curious ones on shore surrounded him for informa- 
tion. 

That’s what you call makin’ a quick landin’,” 
Master Cushing said in a tone of triumph as the yacht 
was headed out of the harbor. I’m allowin’ that we 
didn’t spend thirty seconds settin’ the doctor ashore, 
an’ it comes pretty near bein’ record time.” 

Did the doctor tell you anything new ? ” Paul 
asked. 

“ He didn’t seem to know as much about the ac- 
cident as I did, an’ asked more questions in a minute 
than I could have answered in an hour, if I’d been 
posted on the whole business. I’m goin’ to give over 
botherin’ my head about it till Cap’ in Tobi gets through 
figurin’ the thing out.” 

‘‘ Are you depending upon his opinion? ” Ned asked 
laughingly. ‘‘ I didn’t suppose you’d agree that he 
knew anything whatsoever.” 

I haven’t got any very great idee of him as a 
sailor, even if he has been in command of square- 
riggers; but it’s a fact that now an’ then he comes 
mighty near hittin’ the nail on the head, same’s when 
he figured that John Ed was at Apple Island.” 

“ The world is turned upside down if you have come 
to consider the old sailor as an oracle,” and Paul went 
below where he remained during the voyage across to 
the island, having come to believe, despite what he 
had said, that Zenas was still puzzling over what he 
was pleased to call “ a mystery,” and not caring to 
discuss the affair further. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


307 


When the Silver Fox arrived at her moorings no 
person save the cook on the deck of the Nera could 
be seen, and Zenas cried as the little yacht settled 
down to her anchors : 

‘‘ Where are all the folks ? 

‘‘ Ashore somewhere, an’ I’ve had orders not to 
serve supper till eight o’clock. Seems like everything 
was mixed up since the Downs boys went overboard. 
They tell me Captain Tobi has even gone aboard 
his schooner, an’ is stayin’ below like a fox in his 
hole.” 

“ So he hasn’t come out yet,” Master Cushing re- 
plied with an assumption of carelessness which did not 
deceive the boys. I don’t allow I can do any good 
up at Daniel’s home, so I’ll call on the old pirate jest 
to show him that I don’t harbor any hard feelin’s on 
account of his sometimes roughin’ into me a little in 
times past.” 

If you take the tender, how can we get ashore 
in case we’re needed ? ” Paul asked as Zenas went over 
the rail, and the latter replied in the same careless 
tone: 

One of you boys row me ashore, an’ then you’ll 
have the tender all to yourselves. I may be gone 
quite a spell, for perhaps I’ll toddle up the hill after 
havin’ a look at Cap’in Tobi.” 

Ned acted as ferryman, and when it was possible 
to step ashore Master Cushing said as if it was a 
matter of no especial importance: 

It may be that I shan’t turn up at supper time, 
seein’s how I’ll have quite a bit to do after stirrin’ 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


308 

up the old pirate, so don’t bother your heads if I don’t 
come off till late.” 

“ He and Captain Tobi will figure from now till 
midnight, in the hope of being able to prove that John 
Ed’s ghost is loafing around this island,” Ned said 
when he had returned to the Silver Fox and repeated 
Master Cushing’s last words. “ Zenas may say that 
he has given over trying to learn how the boys were 
hurt; but I know that he’s got the worst attack of 
detective fever he’s had since we came to work on 
Silver Fox Farm.” 

Let him go his way, for he will whether we’re 
agreeable or not,” Paul replied with a hearty laugh. 
‘‘ He tried to learn something from the doctor, and 
failing in that has been like a bear with a sore head 
ever since. Neither he nor Captain Tobi will be satis- 
fied unless they can show that the old smuggler is re- 
sponsible for all that has happened to Sam and Ernest. 
I’m going below and take a little comfort in this swell 
cabin of ours.” 

As he had said, so Paul did, and when Ned joined 
him a few moments later, the lad was stretched out 
luxuriously on one of the lockers, looking with pride 
at the silver plate on the bulkhead. 

Shall I light the lamps ? ” Ned asked. '' The sun 
has set, and it is growing dark fast.” 

“If we show a light some of the men may come 
aboard from the Nera to spend the time while waiting 
for a late supper, and I’d rather stay here alone for a 
spell.” 

“ Trying Zenas’s game, and hoping to show that 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


309 


you’re detective enough to prove that Bingham is on 
the island? ” 

I’m putting that old fellow from my mind en- 
tirely, for there can be no question as to his having 
been drowned,” Paul replied, and then he amused 
himself by speculating as to where they could cruise in 
the Silver Fox when another summer had come. 

Ned was only too willing to join in such conver- 
sation, which resulted in many plans being formed, and 
neither of the boys was aware of the flight of time, 
so interested were they in what the future might bring 
to them, until night had fully come and the interior of 
the cabin was so dark that it was impossible to see 
each other. 

I guess we can take the chances of lighting the 
lamps by this time,” and Ned rose to his feet just as 
the yacht reeled slightly as if having come in contact 
with something, after which it was possible to hear 
faint sounds as if some one was coming aboard. 

Zenas has got back,” Paul said. He and Captain 
Tobi have figured everything out to please themselves, 
and now we shall hear a blood-curdling story of what 
couldn’t have happened.” 

Then came the patter as of naked feet on the deck, 
and at the instant when Ned lighted a match in order 
to set fire to the wicks of the lamps, a most forlorn- 
looking object came timorously down the companion- 
way, and Ned cried in alarm as he dropped the match 
yet aflame, regardless of the damage that might be 
done : 

‘‘John Ed Bingham!” 


310 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ Don’t, boys, don’t yell so loud ! I’ve been watchin’ 
my chance to find you alone ” 

‘‘Are you really John Ed?” Paul cried in amaze- 
ment as he came forward swiftly to where the new- 
comer stood at the foot of the stairway, seemingly not 
daring to advance further until he had received per- 
mission. 

“ Didn’t Sam an’ Ernest tell you I was here? ” 

So bewildered was Paul by the admission that the 
visitor was the old smuggler whom he had felt posi- 
tive was dead, that not until he had lighted a match 
and peered scrutinizingly into the man’s face, could 
he be convinced. 

Then it was he saw a most wretched being, from 
every angle of whose garments the water was running 
in tiny streams, while his gray hair, matted and hang- 
ing over his forehead, gave to his face a most ghastly 
appearance. Bare-footed and but half-clad, hesitating 
whether to advance or retreat, Bingham presented a 
pitiable spectacle. 

Even though he was almost as much alarmed as 
surprised, Paul’s first thought was that the furnish- 
ings of the cabin would be injured if the visitor re- 
mained on the carpet while the water was running 
from his garments, and he cried sharply: 

“ Come on deck where you won’t muss things up ; 
you’re leaving a lot of water on the carpet.” 

“ I can’t go there ! ” Bingham cried in alarm. 
“ Some one may see me, an’ I want a chance to talk to 
you boys alone before anybody finds out that I’m 
here!” 



AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR 






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FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


311 

‘'Talk to us?’’ Ned repeated in bewilderment. 
“ What have we to do with you? ” 

“ I’m not so sure you will have anythin’ to do with 
me; but give me a chance to tell what I’ve come to say, 
an’ then if it’s a case of turnin’ me over to the owners 
of the island, I’ll go without a whimper. I’ve been 
tryin’ to get at you lads these last two days, an’ this 
is the first show I’ve had; Cap’in Tobi or Zenas Cushin’ 
have allers been moonin’ ’round when there was a 
show for me to give Sawtelle an’ Simpson the slip. 
When Cap’in Tobi went aboard his schooner, an’ 
Zenas followed him, I swam out here, an’ I’ll swim 
back this very minute if you ain’t willin’ for me to 
stay. I’m only askin’ you to listen to me ten min- 
utes ” 

“ I’ll light the lamps,” Ned said, forgetting for the 
moment that the water was running from John Ed’s 
clothing to the carpet. “ We can see ” 

“ Don’t do that ! ” and there could be no question 
but that the old smuggler was terrified. “ If any of 
the other people get to know I’m here, before I’ve had 
a chance to talk with you, the fat is in the fire. Surely 
you can’t be afraid of a man who’s so far down as I 
am, even if he has tried to do you a bad turn whenever 
he got the chance.” 

“ It is impossible to say how soon some one may 
come aboard,” Paul began as if in perplexity, and 
added hopefully as a happy thought came to him, 
“No one would think of coming into the forecastle, 
unless we show a light, and if you’re willing to go 
there we’re ready to hear all you want to say, though 


312 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


I can't so much as guess how we might be able to lend 
a hand in case we feel so disposed. You know, Mr. 
Bingham, that you have played us some hard tricks, 
and that through you we have lost the best power-boat 
of her size that could be found on the coast.” 

“ Give me a chance to show jest how Pm fixed,” 
the man pleaded as if life itself depended upon the de- 
cision of the boys. I know you've got every reason 
to call me the worst man in the world, an’ most likely 
I am ; but now ” 

Come into the forecastle,” Paul interrupted. 
“ Zenas may be back at any moment, although he gave 
us to understand that he might remain away quite a 
while. We’ll listen to what you've got to say; but 
won’t promise more.” 

That's all I’m askin', an’ without whinin' or tryin’ 
to be mealy-mouthed. I'm agreein’ that it’s a good bit 
more’n I deserve.” 

Follow me, and if any one comes aboard before 
you have finished what you want to say, we’ll show 
you a hiding-place where you can stay until the talk is 
over, though I must say again, that there’s nothing we 
can do if you’re needin’ help, as I suppose you are, 
else you wouldn’t have shown yourself.” 

To this Bingham made no reply for Paul had begun 
to ascend the companionway, and the visitor was 
eager to follow that he might be where there was less 
likelihood of his being seen by others. 

Ned brought up the rear, his brain a whirl with the 
knowledge that not only was this the man who it 
seemed certain must be dead, but that he had succeeded 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


313 

in making his way to Barren Island, and had come to 
them evidently to ask a favor. 

From all he had heard regarding the old smuggler 
he knew it must be something decidedly out of the 
ordinary which had reduced him to asking aid from 
any one; but that he should have come to those whom 
he had worked so hard and so persistently to injure 
was a greater mystery than that which enshrouded 
Sam and Ernest Downs. 

Silently Paul led the way across the deck to the 
forecastle hatch, through which he motioned Bing- 
ham to descend, and the old smuggler, trusting im- 
plicitly in the generosity of those who should have 
been his bitter enemies, obeyed without hesitation, 
making his way down into the dark place which was 
rather a storage room than the forecastle of a vessel. 

The boys followed him, groping here and there to 
find a place in which to sit, for the darkness when the 
hatch had been closed was so intense as to seem pal- 
pable, and only by the slight noise he made while 
changing his position ever so slightly could they have 
any idea as to where their visitor might be. Then 
came a time of silence, the boys waiting for Bingham 
to begin, and he evidently holding his peace until re- 
ceiving permission to speak. 

Did you go past the entrance to Seaview harbor 
in our Hampton boat on the day of the big storm? 
Paul finally asked as a means of beginning the conver- 
sation, the purport of which he was unable even to 
guess. 

‘‘ That’s what I did, and I allowed then that my 


314 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


last day had come, for I couldn’t make that harbor 
any more’n I could the next.” 

The wreck of the Hampton boat was seen by Cap- 
tain Jed, and everybody believed you had been 
drowned.” 

That’s what I’ve been hopin’ folks would settle 
down to ; but since I come across the Downs boys, an’ 
they got used up so bad, I knew it would all have to 
come out. Here I was without a cent to my name, an’ 
mighty little show of stealin’ one of your boats ’cause 
you hadn’t so many that I could pick ’em up handy.” 

‘‘ But how did you get back here to Barren Island 
when the wind was so high, and the Hampton boat 
wrecked?” Ned interrupted, and Mr. Bingham told 
his story as if describing the experiences of some other 
man: 

“ I tried to make Seaview harbor, as you seem to 
know, but couldn’t fetch it; the boat was more than 
half full of water, and steered so hard I couldn’t afford 
to spend very much time tryin’ to bale her out. The 
best I could do was to work the pump a minute at a 
time, an’ then jump back to the helm. Well, failin’ 
Seaview, where I wouldn’t have met many friends, I 
tried to make Pleasant Harbor, countin’ to beach the 
boat on the point you most likely know ” 

‘‘ Indeed, we do,” Paul cried angrily. ‘‘ Stealing 
the Hampton wasn’t anything compared with maroon- 
ing us on that place ! ” 

‘‘ It couldn’t be helped, lad,” the old smuggler re- 
plied in a matter-of-fact tone. Of course I could 
hear the Hampton while she was a mile away, an’ 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


315 


when she got near enough for me to make out Zenas 
Cushin’ at the helm, I knew what you’d come for. It 
was a case of doin’ what I did, or servin’ another term 
in jail, an’ you lads can’t so much as imagine what 
it means to a man like me who has always lived out 
of doors, as you might say, to be shut up inside of 
four stone walls with never a chance to draw a long 
breath of fresh air. I knew you boys an’ Zenas was 
too strong a team for me to buck against, so I did 
the next best thing, an’ you fellows played right into 
my hands. Fancy goin’ to lug a man off to jail, an’ 
leavin’ behind a boat ready for sea where he could put 
his hands on it without turnin’ a hair! There ain’t a 
man livin’ who wouldn’t have jumped at the chance 
same’s I did.” 

‘‘ There’s no question but that it was a fool trick,” 
Paul said curtly ; “ but you might have offered to set 
us across to the mainland.” 

“ S’pose I’d been reckless enough to do that, how 
do you think Zenas Cushin’ would have acted once he 
was aboard? He’d mittened on to me, an’ you boys 
would have been obleeged to lend him a hand, seein’s 
it was me you’d come after. I’m tellin’ you that I 
couldn’t have done any other thing unless I was willin’ 
to march like any lamb behind you fellows to where I 
could be locked up.” 

Do you fancy there’s no chance now that you’ll be 
clapped into jail ? ” 

I’m not sich a fool as that, an’ the one hope I’ve 
got is that you boys will come to turn this thing over 
in your minds till you’re willin’ to help me out.” 


3i6 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


We wouldn’t raise a finger to help you escape from 
the owners of this island. In fact, we shall do all we 
can to prevent your leaving this yacht until Mr. Saw- 
telle and father know where you are.” 

“ Yes,” Mr. Bingham said thoughtfully, “ IVe fig- 
gered all that out, an’ yet I’m takin’ the chances that 
before we’ve come to an end of talkin’ there’ll be a 
change in you so far as John Ed is concerned ” 

“ You haven’t yet told us how you came through the 
storm alive,” Ned said impatiently. 

“ Sure enough. Well, it ain’t a long story, though 
it seemed mighty long while I was swashin’ ’round 
tryin’ to save myself from drownin’. As I said, I 
couldn’t make Pleasant Harbor, an’ every minute I was 
gettin’ a bigger load of water; I knew the Hampton 
wouldn’t hold together many hours, an’ I let her go off 
before the wind, not knowin’ where I might bring up. 
Of course she was bound to sail easterly, an’ before 
sunset I found myself in sight of this ’ere island, with 
my boat ’bout the same as a wreck. The dory was a 
new one, if you remember, an’ I took the last chance 
by gettin’ into her, trustin’ to luck. Then it was I 
saw one little bit of hope, an’ I pulled as I never did 
before to make Horse-Shoe Cove. The wreck drifted 
to eastward as long as I could see it; but must have 
got into a westerly current after goin’ to pieces, which 
accounts for her bein’ picked up by Cap’in Jed. Now 
before I go any further, jest let me remind you that 
I went straight to Seaview after leavin’ you in Pleas- 
ant Harbor, an’ told Billy Mansfield where you could 
be found. That ought’er count in my favor a little 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


317 


bit, for I knew there were plenty of men in that town 
who’d tumble all over themselves for a chance to shove 
handcuffs on me.’^ 

We’ll give you credit for that much,” Paul said 
curtly. '' Now, let’s hear how you got ashore here, 
and where you’ve been ever since.” 

“ Well, I pulled the dory into Horse-Shoe Cove, an’ * 
I was that beat out when we struck the beach that I 
couldn’t do any more’n stagger over the rail, when I 
fell square on my face, an’ laid there nobody knows 
how long; but it was well into the night before I got 
my senses agin. I counted on sneakin’ up to Daniel’s 
house an’ gettin’ somethin’ to eat, as well as a coat an’ 
pair of trousers, for I was mighty nigh naked by this 
time. Then my plan was to make for Pleasant Harbor 
as soon as the storm cleared away. Of course the 
first thought that came into my head after I knew that 
I was alive, had to do with the dory, for unless I got 
her it wouldn’t be possible to leave this ’ere place, an’ 

I didn’t need to be told many times that your Mr. 
Sawtelle was gunnin’ for me mighty strong. But the 
boat wasn’t there ; I didn’t have sense enough left to 
make her fast, an’ what with the wind an’ the tide, 
she went out to sea.” 

At this point Mr. Bingham ceased speaking, as if 
his story had been told, and Ned, who was eager now 
that he saw an opportunity of clearing away all that 
had been a mystery, impatiently, urged him to continue 
the story. 

Of course I didn’t dare to go to Daniel’s then, 
for I had no craft in which to sneak off in case he 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


318 

turned rusty an’ was bent on tellin’ Sawtelle that I’d 
turned up agin. My only show seemed to be in keep- 
in’ under cover till I’d got into better shape, an’ then 
make a try at gettin’ some kind of a craft from the 
harbor. I hung under the cliff at the southerly end of 
the island all the next day, knowin’ none of your folks 
would be likely to come snoopin’ ’round on the shore, 
an’ at night I did my best to get a word with Daniel ; 
but things were mixed up a good bit by that time, 
as of course you remember, an’ the best I could do was 
to get away with a piece of bacon an’ some potatoes 
that I found in his shed.” 

But surely you haven’t been on this island ever 
since then ? ” 

“ I haven’t been anywhere else, lad, for the reason 
that I couldn’t get away, try as I might.” 

Where did you stay ? ” 

Under the cliff for a spell ; I caught a lobster now 
an’ then, an’ ate it without cookin’. Then Cap’in 
Tobi’s schooner came ashore the second time, an’ I 
found snug quarters on her fore-peak when he was 
at Daniel Downs’s house. Her crew are old friends 
of mine, an’ was willin’ to do what they could rather 
than see a man starve to death, so you may say I’ve 
lived on him, same as I lived on Sawtelle when I hid 
aboard the Neraf^ 

“ Why didn’t you stay aboard the schooner ? ” Paul 
asked. 

“ The best reason is that he came on board to-day 
an’ begun rammin’ ’round from one end of the hold 
to the other, as if believin’ he might have missed me 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


319 


the time he chucked me below when he was off Apple 
Island. There were too many chances he might find 
me, an’ I didn’t feel what you might call easy in mind 
owin’ to not knowin’ what had started him out huntin’, 
so when Zenas Cushin’ came aboard, an’ the two went 
into the after cabin, chinnin’ away there as thick as 
thieves, I sneaked ashore. Before then, though. I’d 
made up my mind to have a talk with you boys an’ 
find out if we couldn’t put an end to a good deal that’s 
been goin’ wrong.” 

“ Who’s to blame because matters have gone 
wrong?” Ned asked sharply, and Mr. Bingham re- 
plied promptly: 

‘‘ I am, an’ while I ain’t goin’ to whine an’ make a 
poor mouth. I’ve come to where I’d like to turn straight 
about, else I wouldn’t have swum out here on the 
chance that you’d be aboard this yacht. I’ve been lead- 
in’ what’s worse’n a dog’s life, an’ have made up my 
mind to try another tack, if so be that’s possible.” 

Why didn’t you go to Captain Tobi instead of 
coming to us boys? He could help you if he felt so 
disposed, because he’d be able to keep you aboard the 
schooner where neither Mr. Sawtelle nor father would 
suspect you might be in hiding.” 

'' Look here, lad. I’ve done a good many foolish 
things in my life; but never what would be as wild as 
thinkin’ that fat sailor would lend a hand to another 
man unless there were dollars in it for him. Once I 
bought a boat called the Zoe from Cap’in Tobi, an’ 
meant to play square, so the first time I got a few dol- 
lars ahead I offered ’em to him, promisin’ to pay more 


320 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


as soon as I could. Do you know what the curmud- 
geon did? He took the money, didn’t give me any 
writin’ to show I’d paid it, an’ declared that he held it 
as interest on the debt. I told him he’d play fair with 
me or I’d never pay a cent on the boat. He thought 
he had me where the hair was short, seein’s I was in a 
little mix-up jest then with some of the Custom House 
officers, an’ swore he’d have me in jail for the debt if 
I didn’t ante up the whole price for the boat without 
countin’ in what I’d jest given him, an’ I allowed he 
could do his best or his worst, whichever way you’ve 
a mind to put it; but hie’s never had a cent out of me 
since. S’posen I’d gone to him as I’ve come to you, 
he’d tried to squeeze out of me money that I haven’t 
got, an’ wound up by turnin’ me over to your Mr. 
Sawtelle.” 

He caught you once,” Paul suggested. 

Yes, down to Apple Island. I was allowin’ to 
lay up there quite .a spell, never thinkin’ anybody 
would get scent of me, an’ he come nosin’ ’round; 
caught me nappin’, an’ the only way out was to make 
believe I’d given up all hopes of gettin’ off when he 
was on my trail. Then the old fool chucked me into 
the hold, as if there was no way to get out of sich a 
place, an’ went below to chuckle over what he thought 
was a mighty cute trick. He had two men for crew, 
same’s he’s got now, an’ hadn’t more’n got out of sight 
before they raised the hatch. I slipped over the rail 
an’ swam ashore, which wasn’t much of a job, seein’s 
the schooner was close in shore. I’m told that Cap’in 
Tobi nearly turned a fit when he couldn’t find me,” and 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


321 


John Ed laughed heartily, but with due care to making 
a noise lest he should be overheard by those from whom 
he wished to remain hidden. 

What do you know about Sam and Ernest 

Paul interrupted himself in the midst of the ques- 
tion, for at that moment Master Cushing’s voice could 
be heard as he shouted : 

Ahoy on the Silver Fox! Aho — o — oy ! ” 

‘‘ Don’t let him find me here until I’ve had the 
chance to say what I wanted to, an’ I haven’t made a 
beginnin’ yet!” John Ed cried in fear, and the boys 
fancied even in the darkness that he was seeking 
another hiding-place. 

‘‘ You shall stay where you are,” Paul replied sooth- 
ingly. ‘‘If Zenas doesn’t go ashore again to-night, 
we’ll try to smuggle some food in, and I’ll bar the 
hatch, locking it on so that no one can get down here 
save with my permission.” 

“ Ahoy on the Silver Fox! Aho — o — oy! ” 

Ned ran on deck to answer the hail, for by Master 
Cushing’s tone it could be understood that he was 
growing impatient because of receiving no reply. 
Paul again assured the fugitive that no one should 
see him until he had finished his “ talk,” after which 
Master Simpson went on deck, making the hatch se- 
cure as he had promised, just as Zenas hailed angrily 
the third time. 

Both Paul and Ned pulled the tender ashore to take 
off the impatient Zenas, and were no sooner arrived at 
the beach than Master Cushing asked with a note of 
suspicion in his tones : 


322 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Didn’t you fellows come from the Silver Fox? 

Of course we did.” 

But I didn’t see any light aboard.” 

The reason for that, Zenas, is because there wasn’t 
any,” Paul replied laughingly. “ I don’t know of any 
law that requires us to illuminate the yacht simply be- 
cause we’re aboard.” 

What were you doin’ in the dark ? ” 

I went into the cabin shortly after you had gone 
ashore, telling Ned that I was going to enjoy the 
luxury around me, and he decided to do the same 
thing. When he wanted to light the lamps I told him 
we’d better stay in darkness, and then we wouldn’t be 
troubled by visitors. He agreed with me, and we — 
we — we staid there, that’s all. I thought you didn’t 
intend to come on board until late in the evening.” 

“I did reckon on doin’ quite a lot of chores; but 
after chewin’ over with Cap’in Tobi that which has 
happened to Sam an’ Ernest, I made up my mind that 
there was nothin’ much to be done before to-morrow.” 

“ I suppose you and the captain have settled the 
matter so definitely that you can explain exactly how 
everything happened? ” 

‘‘We made some mighty good guesses, an’ before 
to-morrow night I may be able to tell somethin’ that’ll 
make your eyes stick out.” 

“ Meaning that you and the captain are then to un- 
ravel the mystery? ” 

“ It ain’t so certain that we shall tell all we know ; 
but I’ll go bail that we could astonish you this very 
minute if you knew what we’d figured out,” and there 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


323 


was in Zenas’s voice a certain inflection intended to 
give the hearer the idea that all which Sam and Ernest 
had failed to explain could be told by him if he felt so 
disposed. 

Perhaps Ned and I have hit upon something which 
would surprise you/’ Paul said laughingly. “ We’ve 
been enjoying the beautiful things in the after cabin, 
but at the same time there’s been a good deal said 
which may have a bearing on the accident.” 

What is it? ” Master Cushing asked eagerly, ceas- 
ing to row, so great was his desire to hear what the 
boys might have learned. 

It’s too soon for us to compare notes with you. 
Wait until after you and Captain Tobi have arranged 
matters to suit you, and then we’ll come forward with 
our guesses. Are you going ashore again to-night ? ” 
'' I allow to turn in mighty soon after supper ; but 
I’ll be astir before you’re awake in the mornin’, an’ 
when I come back agin it’ll be with news that’ll make 
you sit up an’ take notice.” 


CHAPTER XVII 


JOHN ED’s plea 

The unforeseen return of Master Cushing and his 
announcement that he intended to remain aboard the 
Neva until the following morning, caused Paul and 
Ned no little distress of mind. They had left John Ed 
locked in the forecastle, and, judging from his appear- 
ance as well as the little he had told them, it was neces- 
sary he have food within a short time; but how to 
carry it to him without the knowledge of Zenas was 
rather a perplexing question. 

There was no doubt but that Master Cushing would 
consider it his duty to accompany the boys wherever 
they might go, and yet one of them must make some 
plausible excuse for visiting the Silver Fox alone, be- 
cause it seemed necessary to keep secret the fact of 
his whereabouts until he had told all his story, thereby 
explaining to them why he had come. 

Not until supper was served did Paul get an op- 
portunity to speak privately with his cousin, and then 
by lingering behind when the others went into the 
cabin, he succeeded in whispering without attracting 
the attention of any one : 

‘‘ You must hold Zenas in the cabin long enough to 
give me the chance to get some food and carry it across 
to the yacht. Pll hurry through the meal so as to 
leave the table before he has satisfied his hunger.’* 

324 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


325 


There was no time to say anything more, for Master 
Cushing had turned back to learn why they lingered, 
and the three went into the cabin, one triumphant in 
the belief that before the end of another day he would 
be able to explain what had seemed like a great 
mystery, and two in no little distress of mind because 
of their secret. 

So eager was Paul to carry out his portion of the 
hastily formed plan, that he had hardly begun the 
meal before he left the table, declaring he was not 
hungry, and straightway Ned engaged Zenas in a dis- 
cussion as to the possibility of floating Captain Tobi’s 
schooner without the aid of a tug. 

The cook was not a little curious because Paul 
asked for food to take on board the Silver Fox in case 
of an emergency, and said plainly that it was a deliber- 
ate attempt to add to his labors, for the yacht could 
be provisioned, if it was really necessary, at some time 
other than when he was busy waiting upon those who 
were willin’ to take their grub at the regular time, 
an’ when it had been made ready for all hands.” 

However, despite his grumbling he did as Paul re- 
quested, and with a plentiful meal even for a man on 
the verge of starvation, the lad crept over the rail 
and into the tender with the appearance of one who 
is engaged in some unlawful act. He rowed the small 
boat with all possible caution lest the splashing of the 
water might reach Master Cushing’s sharp ears, and 
after opening the hatch with all due regard to silence, 
whispered hoarsely: 


326 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ Here’s something to eat, and a bottle of drinking 
water, Mr. Bingham. Zenas has come aboard the 
yacht for the night, and we won’t be able to see you 
again until he goes away in the morning.” 

“You’ll be certain to come then?” the fugitive 
asked as he groped with his hands in the darkness until 
getting that which had been brought. 

“We’ll be here just as soon as possible; don’t fear 
that we’ll forget you, though I’m not promising that 
we’ll go very far out of our way to do what you 
may wish.” 

“ All I’m askin’ is that you’ll hear what I’ve got to 
say.” 

“ That we’ll do sometime to-morrow forenoon,” 
and Paul closed the hatch, pulling back to the Nera 
and re-entering the cabin before Zenas was ready to 
leave the table. 

It was as if Master Cushing had seen or heard some- 
thing to arouse his suspicions that the boys held a 
secret from him, for he asked sharply where Paul had 
been, and why it was that he had so suddenly lost his 
appetite. Fortunately, however, Mr. Sawtelle inter- 
rupted his questioning by stating that in his opinion 
Sam and Ernest Downs were recovering, and that the 
services of the physician would not be needed again. 

“ By this time to-morrow they should be able to give 
a detailed account of the accident, and I shall be glad 
when everything is made plain, for a mystery here on 
this small island is not pleasing.” 

“ It may be that we’ll find out the whole story with- 
out callin’ on them,” Zenas said in a tone which gave 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


327 


one to believe that he could tell more if he was so 
disposed; but the owners of the island gave little heed 
to his words, save when Mr. Simpson said laughingly : 

I suppose, Zenas, that you are bringing your 
detective ability to bear on the matter, and count on 
being able soon to settle all questions on the subject.” 

‘‘ It wouldn’t be the first time that I had come near 
guessin’ what was up; but nobody would believe in 
what I said.” 

“ That has been the grand trouble with your detec- 
tive work, Zenas, you never gave us a chance to be- 
lieve or doubt what you said, because, except when you 
bound the boys to secrecy, you never told what was 
in your mind. Take care lest in the present case you 
remain silent too long.” 

Master Cushing made no reply ; but, rising from the 
table, beckoned the boys to follow him to their sleep- 
ing quarters, where, under pretense that it would be 
necessary for him to be abroad at a very early hour 
next morning, he proposed that they put themselves 
into position for slumber. 

Paul and Ned were more than willing to act upon 
the suggestion lest they inadvertently reveal the secret 
of the Silver Fox’s forecastle, and in a comparatively 
short time all journeyed over into the land of dreams. 

When Paul awakened next morning the sun had 
risen; Zenas was nowhere to be seen, and on ques- 
tioning the cook it was learned that he had eaten a 
hurried breakfast in the kitchen, contenting himself 
with bread and coffee, after which he went on board 
Captain Tobi’s schooner, all of which was good proof 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


328 

that he and the old sailor believed they had found some 
clue to the mystery. 

It is needless to say that the boys made all haste to 
visit the occupant of the forecastle, delaying only until 
the owners of the island had gone ashore, when, with 
an additional supply of food, they went aboard the 
yacht. 

John Ed was awaiting them impatiently, perhaps 
because he feared they might not keep the promise 
made in regard to secrecy, and it was with a long- 
drawn sigh of relief that he said when the boys had 
dropped into the forecastle, leaving the hatch open 
ever so slightly in order to admit a few rays of light : 

Even if you lads come to believe that I can’t be 
trusted as a friend after havin’ shown myself the 
meanest kind of an enemy, I won’t forget what you’ve 
done for me so far. Now this is how things stand, 
’cordin’ to my way of lookin’ at ’em ” 

Suppose you first tell us how Sam and Ernest were 
hurt so badly simply by the overturning of the dory? ” 
Paul interrupted. 

It was more than the capsizin’ of their boat, lad, 
as the boys will tell you when they’ve come out of their 
muddle. You’ll remember I told you last night that I 
spent most of my time since the Hampton was 
wrecked, under the cliff that hangs over the southerly 
reefs. Now some day you go down there when the 
tide is low, an’ you’ll see where the rocks have given 
away a bit jest over the reef, makin’ the poorest kind 
of a cave; but enough to shelter a man when the wind 
is in any other quarter than the south. It can only be 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


329 


reached when the tide is low, an’ once in it a fellow 
must stay from half -high water till the ebb flow has 
set in two or three hours. I was there yesterday; had 
had nothin’ to eat for a matter of twelve hours, an’ 
counted on crawlin’ out to catch a lobster. Owin’ 
to bein’ in a hurry for fear some of you people might 
come that way, I began to creep out before takin’ 
heed to the tide. I’d got jest to the edge when I found 
that it would be a case of droppin’ into the water, 
an’ started to crawl back when the loose rock gave 
way, an’ there I was, hangin’ over the surf that beat 
on the reef, without bein’ able to pull myself up agin. 
To let go meant takin’ big chances of bein’ killed.” 

“ Well, well, where do the Downs boys come into 
the story?” Ned cried as Bingham ceased speaking 
as if lost in thought. 

It was while I hung there thinkin’ I’d pulled 
through the big gale only to be pounded to a jelly on the 
reef, that Sam an’ Ernest came around the point. Jest 
then I’d hailed your man Sawtelle, takin’ the chances of 
his chuckin’ me in jail, rather than dropped into that 
smother, an’ I nat’rally shouted to the boys. They 
knew who I was without bein’ introduced, for I heard 
Ernest cry out my name as if my bein’ there frightened 
him ; but he didn’t spend much time with bein’ scared, 
for I yelled that I couldn’t hold on many seconds 
longer, an’ in they rowed, knowin’, of course, that it 
was takin’ big risks to run a dory through the narrow 
passage where she was like to be stove. Good boys, 
Sam an’ Ernest, an’ some day I may be able to do 
them as good a turn as they did me.” 


330 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


“ But how did they get hurt? Paul demanded when 
Bingham again ceased speaking. 

It was jest this way, an’ no blame to me, though 
I’m the one who knocked ’em silly: They pulled 
straight between the reefs, one rowin’ an’ the other 
fendin’ off to prevent the dory from bein’ stove, till 
the boat was exactly underneath me. Then was the 
time I should have jumped, ’cause I could have landed 
in the craft without hurtin’ anybody; but I was well- 
nigh played out; there was no longer any life in 
my arms, an’ I fell like a chump, striking both the 
lads with force enough to knock the breath from their 
bodies — the wonder was that I didn’t kill ’em outright. 
Of course the dory was capsized, an’ the three of us 
were knocked back an’ forth between the reefs in a 
way that ought’er smashed all of us to a jelly. The 
boys were hurt mighty bad, in addition to the thump 
I gave ’em; but swashin’ ’round in the water, even if 
I did bring up agin the rocks in a way that was 
scandalous, helped bring me to my senses, an’ I’d 
jest contrived to get Sam an’ Ernest where they could 
catch hold of the ^lug-strap when I heard you fellows 
cornin’. I kicked the overturned boat with the boys 
dingin’ to it, as far out of the reef as was possible, 
and even while you stood on the top of the cliff lookin’ 
at the dory, I managed to get back into the hole, 
about the same as used up, an’ with two or three 
ribs broken, I reckon, ’cordin’ to the trouble I’ve had 
since.” 

“ And was that the only injury the boys received? ” 
Paul asked. 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


331 


Ay ; but it was enough to lay ’em out for good 
if they hadn’t been stronger’n a couple of moose. 
Perhaps it don’t sound very much, the way I’ve told 
it; but the wonder to me is that the boys came out 
alive.” 

Well, now, why did you come to Ned and me? 
What do you fancy we can do for you? ” 

“ First ofif, lad, let me agree that I’m down an’ out; 
some of my ribs must have been broken; I’ve got 
neither money nor clothes, an’ am at the end of my 
rope so far as gettin’ a boat comes in. I’m no fool in 
some things, an’ have got sense enough to know when 
I’m knocked out of time. These days there’s no show 
of makin’ a dollar in the smugglin’ line, an’ if there 
was I couldn’t go back into the business till I’d got a 
craft an’ some cash. I want to turn straight around 
an’ come somewhere near bein’ a decent man before I 
die. If your folks will let me stay on the island this 
winter. I’ll work my fingers to the bone if need be, an’ 
won’t ask for a cent of wages. Instead of tryin’ to do 
harm to the foxes. I’ll look after ’em as well as any 
man could, an’ will stake my head that nothin’ disturbs 
’em. To put it another way, I want the owners of this 
’ere island to give me one chance to live on the square. 
If you give a dog a bad name his life ain’t long enough 
for him to live it down, an’ that’s the way it is with 
me. I’ve spent a good deal of my life roughin’ them 
as have done me wrong, an’ now when anythin’ goes 
on that shouldn’t, everybody howls, ‘ Oh, that’s John 
Ed; the old scoundrel is up to his capers agin.’ Unless 
somebody lends me half a hand I might live till the 


332 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


crack of doom, an’ never contrive to make folks under- 
stand that I knew how to be decent.” 

Bingham spoke with much feeling, and at the same 
time showed by the expression on his face more 
plainly than he could have done by words, that his 
whole heart was in the plea. The boys were deeply 
moved, and while not losing the sense of the wrongs 
done by him, they unconsciously began to have no 
little sympathy for the man who looked so forlorn and 
wretched. 

‘‘ Ned and I couldn’t help you out of the hobble, 
Mr. Bingham,” Paul said after a long and somewhat 
painful pause. It is for Mr. Sawtelle and father to 
say what shall or shall not be done on the island, and 
we are hardly more than hired laborers. You must 
go to them.” 

'' That’s what I count on doin’, lad ; but first I’m 
beggin’ that you boys put in a good word for me, so’s 
to kind’er get ’em ready for what I’ve got to say. 
If I should flash up to your Mr. Sawtelle, unexpected 
like, he wouldn’t give me a chance to speak; but off 
to Seaview I’d be packed, an’ Cap’in Tobi would do the 
freightin’ so’s he could show me off in the town as 
somethin’ he’d caught single-handed.” 

It isn’t likely Mr. Sawtelle would listen to any 
advice we might give,” Ned said thoughtfully, and as 
if he was ready to do what he might in behalf of the 
old smuggler. 

I ain’t askin’ that you try to give him advice. 
You can talk about me, an’ he’ll listen so long as he 
believes I’m dead or out of his reach. You could 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


333 


kind’er beat ’round the bush till he’d got interested, 
an’ then tell him jest what I’ve said. Let him know 
that I give in beaten; that I can’t run the old rig 
any longer an’ want a chance to show that I can be 
decent. I’ll serve him on this island as faithfully as a 
dog; do two men’s work every day, an’ live square 
an’ honest if he’ll treat me as if I might some day 
turn out to be sich a man as decent people could trust. 
If you have the mind, lads, you can do me a world 
of good, for I’m believin’ Mr. Sawtelle an’ Mr. 
Simpson will listen to you when they wouldn’t to me 
if they believed I was where they could lay me by the 
heels. It’s a good deal I’m askin’ after all I’ve done 
to work you harm; but you can’t be any worse off by 
tryin’ to give a fellow a lift, an’ the time may come 
when you’ll be glad of havin’ had a hand in the matter 
— it shall come if I live long enough ! ” 

What do you think, Ned ? ” and Paul looked 
inquiringly at his cousin. 

‘‘ I’m willing to do or say anything in my power ; 
but what puzzles me is, how we can talk to your father 
and Mr. Sawtelle without much the same as telling 
them that Mr. Bingham is close around here.” 

Here’s what we’ll do,” Paul finally said to John 
Ed. We’ll fix up some way of letting them know 
how you feel, and if neither is willing to help you 
out, it’ll be a case of telling where you are.” 

All right, lad. I’m ready to take the chances, an’ 
when it comes to dots I can’t do anythin’ else, believin’ 
at the same time that you can bring matters around 
as I want. I’ll lay here quiet, an’ if you come to say 


334 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


that Pve got to take another dose in jail, I’ll go peace- 
ful as a lamb with any one except Cap’in Tobi.” 

There was something very like a lump in the throats 
of the boys when they re- fastened the hatch and went 
aft to discuss the matter. John Ed had succeeded in 
arousing their sympathy, and, although it may seem 
strange, they were eager to lend him a helping hand. 

Until the cook shouted a noisy summons for those 
belonging to the Nera to come aboard for dinner the 
two boys discussed the matter, turning the possible out- 
come in this way and that, but without having arrived 
at any definite conclusion when they went over the 
rail to go aboard the larger yacht. 

You’ll know what to say when the time comes,” 
Ned suggested as they descended the Neva's com- 
panionway. “ There’s no need of hurrying things, 
and the story can be told this evening, if you don’t 
get a chance before.” 

“If we couldn’t decide upon a plan during all the 
time we were talking, I fail to see how I can hit upon 
the proper way to tell the story when we have a show 
of doing it,” Paul replied with a long-drawn sigh as 
he entered the cabin. 

Master Cushing was not present, and Mr. Sawtelle, 
who with his partner was already at table, announced 
that the missing one would not present himself for 
either pleasure or duty until evening. 

“ He and Captain Tobi are exploring the easterly 
side of the island, as if expecting to find John Ed 
there,” the owner of the Nera said laughingly. “If 
we had any very important work on hand I would have 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


335 

insisted that Zenas devote his time to us; but since 
there is nothing of consequence to be done until after 
we make another cruise in the Smuggler, it seemed 
as well to let him give full play to his detective scheme.’’ 

It seemed to Paul as if now was the proper moment 
to present John Ed’s case, while Zenas was absent, 
and without stopping to think how the matter should 
be begun, he asked in a tremulous voice : 

Suppose John Ed was alive, and that he should 
ask you to give him a chance to lead an honest life, 
agreeing to work here on the island without wages 
until he proved that he could be trusted, what would 
you say ? ” 

There’s no reason why we should burden our 
brains with any such possibility as that, Paul,” the 
owner of the Neva said carelessly. “ When John Ed, 
if he was alive, should come asking for a chance to 
turn honest, white blackbirds would be plentiful.” 

But suppose he had come to you, say last week ; 
confessed that he was down and out, and asked you to 
give him just one trial, promising faithfully to serve 
you without pay to the best of his ability simply that 
he might prove he could be trusted ? ” Paul continued 
with so much of pleading in his tones, as if asking for 
himself some favor of vital importance. The two 
gentlemen looked at him scrutinizingly, and Mr. Saw- 
telle said gravely : 

“ A stranger might believe that you had lately been 
in communication with Bingham.” 

‘‘ Tell the whole story, Paul,” Ned cried. '' We’ve 
got to take chances, and you’ve got so far that the 


336 AIRSHIP CRUISING 

truth will be out in another minute, however you try 
to hide it.” 

There has been a deal of mischief done in the past 
that might have been prevented if Zenas had not be- 
lieved it wisest to keep his own counsel, and work the 
matter out unaided,” Mr. Simpson said, gazing sharply 
at his son. I hope you two lads will not take him 
for your example. If, as does not seem credible, 
Bingham is alive, and you have been in communication 
with him, it is your duty to make us acquainted with 
all the facts.” 

Matters had gone so far that there was no alterna- 
tive ; the story must be told, and Paul did his best to re- 
peat all that John Ed had said, striving to give such 
inflection to the words that the listeners would come to 
understand, as he and Ned had, how thoroughly in 
earnest the old smuggler was in his desire to ‘‘ turn 
over a new leaf.” 

The owners of the island listened intently, neglect- 
ing the dinner before them, and remained silent as if 
in fear of interrupting the lad, until the long tale 
had come to an end, when the two men gazed at each 
other inquiringly. 

I am willing to give him a trial,” Mr. Simpson 
finally said. “ It is true that he has come to the point 
where he cannot do us any harm just at present; but 
he has been almost as nearly cornered before, and 
succeeded in finally working mischief.” 

But for him the Hampton boat would be afloat,” 
Mr. Sawtelle suggested. 

There is no question but that he has cost us con- 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


337 


siderable in the way of money, and more in time; but 
that is in the past and cannot be undone. It seems 
to me that instead of looking backward we should ask 
whether he will keep his word. If he could be trusted 
it would mean very much to us, for we might have a 
useful man at call, and would not be forced every now 
and then to run here or there in the effort to prevent 
him from doing mischief.” 

And are you willing to trust the foxes to his 
care? ” 

I believe I shall be — I am certain of it if he can 
make the same impression on me that he has on the 
boys.” 

Then let’s have him in here ; tlie sooner the matter 
is settled the better, particularly if some of his ribs are 
broken.” 

Paul and Ned did not wait to be told what they 
should do; but in the greatest possible haste they 
rowed over to the Silver Fox and there informed 
Bingham that the owners of the island would speak 
to him. 

“ They haven’t agreed to anything,” Paul added ; 
but it’s certain they’ll listen to all your story, and 
you must take the chances as to what their decision 
will be.” 

‘‘ That’s all I’m askin’ for, lads,” the old smuggler 
said in a tone of thankfulness, '' an’ whatever comes 
of it I’ll never forget that you did me as good a turn 
as was in your power.” 

Five minutes later John Ed was in the cabin of the 
Neva, speaking to the owners of the island in his own 


338 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


behalf. Paul and Ned did not venture below after 
bringing the old smuggler aboard; there was in their 
minds the idea that Bingham would prefer not to have 
as audience others than those to whom his appeal was 
to be made, and the boys loitered around on deck 
until it seemed as if a full hour had passed, when the 
cook came to say that they were wanted in the cabin. 

Things have come to a pretty pass when such as 
Bingham can come aboard this ’ere yacht as if he 
owned her, an’, what is worse, be the means of spoilin’ 
as good a dinner as I ever cooked.” 

‘‘ Ned and I will eat the food even if it is cold, so 
you needn’t fear that anything will be wasted,” Paul 
said cheerily, feeling wondrously light of heart, for 
it seemed certain the old smuggler was to be given the 
opportunity he so earnestly desired. 

“ For a certain time, just how long we cannot now 
determine, John Ed Bingham is to have sole charge of 
the foxes,” Mr. Sawtelle said as the boys came down 
the companionway. “ He will live at Daniel Downs’s, 
and you lads are to go there with him now, explaining 
to Mr. Downs that he is to be a boarder at our charge. 
Let it be understood by all hands, that this man has 

our full confidence until ” 

‘‘ There shall be no until about it, sir ! ” the old 
smuggler cried in a voice choking with emotion. Pll 
serve you faithfully so long as you are willin’ to have 
me, an’ never ask for a cent of wages.” 

You will be paid as all the others here are, and I 
am foolish enough to believe that you will not cause 
us to regret having taken your word at its seeming 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


339 


value/’ Mr. Sawtelle replied gravely, and Bingham, 
understanding that he was dismissed, walked with 
difficulty up the companionway stairs, thus causing 
Mr. Simpson to say : 

“Later we will try to learn whether you have any 
broken bones, and if such proves to be the case you 
can rest assured that proper medical attention shall be 
given to your needs.” 

John Ed had not yet gained the deck, and Paul was 
standing just outside the companion way door wait- 
ing for him, when Zenas Cushing came down the hill 
running at full speed, while a short distance behind 
Captain Tobi could be seen waddling along in his wake. 
The lad laid his hand on Bingham’s shoulder as he 
whispered : 

“ Stay where you are a minute, for I’m thinking 
we’re about to hear something startling concerning 
you.” 

“ Come ashore quick ! ” Master Cushing shouted ex- 
citedly. “ Sam an’ Ernest have got their wits back, 
an’ they say that John Ed is on this island. Come 
ashore quick, an’ we’ll smoke the old smuggler out 
’twixt now an’ sunset. Cap’in Tobi an’ I are already 
on his track. We haven’t been spendin’ our time for 
nothin’. Come ashore lively, ’cause I’m goin’ to have 
this ’ere job done in short order, an’ there won’t be any 
mistake made now ! ” 

“ But Bingham isn’t on the island,” Paul shouted 
gleefully. 

“ I tell you he is ! Sam an’ Ernest have come 
around all right, an’ they say he was here yesterday. 


340 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Cap’in Tobi an’ I can put our hands on him this very 
minute ; but we want crowd enough back of us so there 
won’t be any chance he can slip through our fingers ! ” 

‘‘We can’t join you in hunting Bingham, for we’ve 
got to go up to Mr. Downs’s house with the man who 
has been hired to take full charge of the foxes,” Paul 
cried, and then he motioned for John Ed to follow him 
over the rail into the tender. 

It appeared as if Zenas did not recognize the third 
member of the party until the boat was within a few 
yards of the shore, and then, at the very moment when 
Captain Tobi arrived on the beach. Master Cushing 
cried in bewilderment: 

“John Ed, or I’m a liar!” 

“ What’s that? John Ed? Then he can’t be where 
we thought he was; but now I’ll get my pay for the 
Zoe or know the reason why I ” 

“John Ed! ” Zenas repeated. “ I’d been willin’ to 
take my oath he was hidin’ on the other side of the 
island, an’ what gets me is how he came aboard the 
Neva. John Ed, an’ actin’ as if he belonged here!” 

“ So he does,” and Ned laughed heartily at the ex- 
pression on Zenas’s face. “ He has been hired to take 
sole charge of the foxes, and is to live with Daniel 
Downs.” 

“John Ed live on this island?” and Master Cush- 
ing’s every feature expressed incredulity. “ Has he 
got the nerve to think he can stay here after all that 
he’s done? ” 

“ Father and Mr. Sawtelle have hired him; he’ll stay 
all winter ” 


FROM SILVER FOX FARM 


341 


** He’ll pay me for the Zoe first! ” and Captain Tobi 
came forward as Bingham stepped from the boat, 
much as though to lay hands on him. 

“ You’d better have a talk with the owners of the 
island before you do anything rash, Captain Tobi,” 
Paul cried warningly. “ Just now our orders are to 
go to Daniel Downs’s home, and Mr. Bingham is to go 
with us.” 

Mister Bingham ! ” Zenas repeated in open- 
mouthed astonishment. 

Paul and Ned continued on up the hill, walking on 
either side of the old smuggler, who had made no 
reply to the exclamations from Captain Tobi and 
Zenas; but when the three were so far away that the 
words could not be overheard, he said bitterly : 

It’s mighty strange that after a man has gone 
wrong awhile, nobody can believe it’s possible for 
him to turn about.” 

Every story must have an ending even though it be 
abrupt, and it is time this one was brought to a close. 
It may be that at some time in the future, when the 
success or failure of Silver Fox Farm is recorded, a 
detailed account will be given of John Ed Bingham’s 
effort to lead an honest life; of Captain Tobi’s attempts 
to launch his schooner and also collect the money due 
on the purchase price of the Zoe; of the further voy- 
ages of the Smuggler, and of the manner in which the 
Silver Fox behaved when caught in a tempest. 

Perhaps all these things should have been embodied 
in this story; but in order to complete the history of 


342 


AIRSHIP CRUISING 


Silver Fox Farm and those connected with it, so much 
space would be required and so many pages printed, 
that even the youngest reader would grow old before 
coming to 


THE “SILVER FOX FARM” SERIES 

By JAMES OTIS 


THE WIRELESS STATION AT SILVER FOX FARM. 

Illustrated by Charles Copeland. 8vo. $1. 50 postpaid. 

A bright, vividly written narrative of the adventures of Paul Simpson and Ned 
Bartlett in helping the former’s father start a farm for raising silver foxes on 
Barren Island, twelve miles off the Maine coast. 

THE AEROPLANE AT SILVER FOX FARM. 

Illustrated by Charles Copeland. 8vo. $1. 50 postpaid. 

An absorbing story of the building and working of an aeroplane on Barren 
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BUILDING AN AIRSHIP AT SILVER FOX FARM. 

Illustrated by Charles Copeland. 8vo. $1.50 postpaid. 

Encouraged by their success in aeroplane-building, the boys of Silver Fox 
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AIRSHIP CRUISING FROM SILVER FOX FARM. 

Illustrated by Charles Copeland. 8vo. $1. 50 postpaid. 

A further account of the marvels performed by the Silver Fox Farmers, in- 
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means of their great air-cruiser. 

BOY SCOUT BOOKS 

BOY SCOUTS IN THE MAINE WOODS. 

BOY SCOUTS IN A LUMBER CAMP. 

12mo, illustrated. Each, $1.25 postpaid. 

Other Books by TAMES OTIS 

FOUND BY THE CIRCUS. 

12mo, illustrated. $1.00 postpaid. 

Dorothy’s Spy Joel Harford Joey at the Fair 

Two Stowaways 

12mo, illustrated. Each, 75 cents postpaid, 

A Short Crul.se How Tommy Saved the Barn 

Dick in the Desert Christmas at Deacon Hackett’s 

Our Uncle the Major How the Twins Captured a Hessian 
Aunt Hannah and Seth The Wreck of the Circus 

8vo, illustrated. Each, 50 cents postpaid. 


THOMAS Y. CROWELL COMPANY 


CROWELL^S BOY SCOUT SERIES 


BOY SCOUTS IN THE MAINE WOODS 

By James Otis. Illustrated by Charles Copeland. 

BOY SCOUTS IN A LUMBER CAMP 

By James Otis. Illustrated by Charles Copeland. 

ALONG THE MOHAWK TRAIL; Or, Boy Scouts on 
Lake Champlain 

By Percy K. Fitzhugh. Illustrated by Reming- 
ton Schuyler. 

FOR UNCLE SAM, BOSS ; Or, Boy Scouts at Panama 
By Percy K. Fitzhugh. Four illustrations. 

PLUCK ON THE LONG TRAIL; Or, Boy Scouts in 
the Rockies 

By Edwin L. Sabin. Illustrated by Clarence 
Rowe. 

EACH VOLUME, 12mo, CLOTH, $1.25 POSTPAID 


A fine series of wholesome, realistic, and 
entertaining stories for boys by juvenile 
writers of recognized standing, who have 
a thorough knowledge of Boy Scouts and of 
real scouting in the sections of the country 
in which the scenes of their books are laid. 


THOMAS Y. CROWELL COMPANY 
NEW YORK 



L 


( 


,EP 5 1913 




